Hawthorne of the 



lAMES BERNARD FAGAN 






-m. 




SAMUEL FRENCH, 28-30 West 38th St., New York 






mk^Mm4<-^^M^:' 










M 



n 










Hawthorne of The U. S. A 

A PLAY IN FOUR ACTS 



BY 



JAMES BERNARD FAGAN 



Copyright, 1917, By Samuel French 



ALL RIGHTS RESERVED 



CAUTION: Professionals and amateurs are hereby warned 
that " Hawtiiokke of the U. S. A." being fully pro- 
tected under the copyright laws of the United States, 
is subject to royalty, and anyone presenting the play 
without the consent of the owners or their authorized 
agents will be liable to the penalties by law provided. 
Applications for the amateur acting rights must be made 
to Samuel French, 28-30 West 38th Street, New York. 
Applications for the professional acting rights must be 
made to Sanger & Jordan, Times Building, New York. 



New York 
SAMUEL FRENCH 

PUBLISHER 

28-30 West 38th STREET 



London 
SAMUEL FRENCH, Ltd. 
26 Southampton Street 
STRAND 



A^ 



>^-"-^' 

^^^\^ 



\ 



Especial notice should be taken that the possession 
of this book without a valid contract for production 
first having been obtained from the publisher, confers 
no right or license to professionals or amateurs to 
produce the play publicly or in private for gain or 
charity. 

In its present form this play is dedicated to the 
reading public only, and no performance of it may be 
given, except by special arrangement vrith Samuel 
French. 

SECTION 28.— That any person who wilfully or for 
profit shall infringe any copyright secured by this act, 
or who shall knowinglj' and wilfully aid or abet such 
iiifringment, shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor, 
and upon conviction thereof shall be punished by im- 
prisonment for not exceeding one year, or by a fine of 
not less than one hundred dollars nor more than one 
thousand dollars, or both, in the discretion of the court. 
Act of March 4, 1909. 



©CI.D 48582 

DEC 12 1317 



The following is a copy of the playbill of the first per- 
formance of " Hawthorne of the U. 8. A." at the Astor 
Theatre, New York, Nov. 4, 1912. 

COHAN & HARRIS 

PRESENT 

DOUGLAS FAIRBANKS 

IN 

HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

A Romantic Farce, Being the Adventures of 
AN American in the Balkans 

BY 

JAMES BERNARD FAGAN 
CAST OF CHARACTERS 

Miss Fitz-Hardinge Smyth Annie Hughes 

M. De Witz Iz'an Simpson 

Princess Irma Augusta Elizabeth 

Overitch Irene Fenwick 

Anthony Hamilton Hawthorne Douglas 

Fairbanks 

Rodney Blake Sam B. Hardy 

Augustus III Allan Pollock 

Count Ivan Pavlovtc Eric Blind 

General Hohenloe Henry Stephenson 

Colonel Radukski Walter Howe 

Prince Vladimir Halberstadt. . .Martin L. Alsop 

M. Frederick Louis LeBey 

A Reporter W. Leonard Hozve 

Kate Ballard Ruth Allen 

Hon. Thomas Ballard Rapley Holmes , 

An Officer of the Guard PV. Mayne Linton 

M. Adamovic Lcgai Robinson 

M. Steinmetz Rcxford Collins 

A Court Chamberlain Frederick Pozvell 

Officers, Soldiers, Police, Officials and 
Civilians 

Time: The present. 



4 HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

Synopsis: Act I. — Garden of the Summer Palace, 
near Oberon, the Capital of Borrovina, a small 
independent state in Southeastern Europe. 
Act n. — Borrovinian Casino in Oberon, used 
as a hotel. Three days later. Act HI.' — 
Cabinet Council Chambers in the Palace at 
Oberon. The same evening. Act IV. — Same 
as Act L One year later. 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 



ACT I 

CAST OF CHARACTERS 

Augustus HI King of Borrovina 

Prince Vladimir Halberstadt 

Count Ivan Paulovic Chancellor of State 

General Hohenloe Minister of War 

M. De Witz Minister of Police 

M. Adamovic Equerry to Prince Vladimir 

An Officer of the Guards 

M. Frederick Proprietor of the Casino 

Reporter on the ''Borrovina Scimitar" 
Anthony Hamilton Hawthorne. . .An^ American 

Tourist 

Rodney Blake His friend 

Senator Thomas Ballard. 

Kate Ballard His daughter 

Princess Irma Augusta Elizabeth Oberitch 

The King's daughter 
Miss Fitz-FIardings Smythe. .An English Gover- 
ness 

Officers, soldiers, officials, civilians, etc. 
5 



Hawthorne of The U. S. A. 



ACT I 



Scene : Laid in Oberon, the small capital of 
Borrovina, a small independent state some- 
where in the mess of Southeastern Europe. 

Time: The present. 

Scene: In the Park of the Summer Palace. A 
picturesque wilderness of neglect and decay. 
Back c. a steep drop fringed by a low broken 
balustrade. From this can be seen a view look- 
ing over a valley sparsely settled, representing 
the Capital. On the l., stone steps lead to the 
, scene. On either side of these moss-grown, 
weather-beaten, broken columns and bits of 
statuary are scattered, partially overgrown with 
creepers, r. c. is a time-zvorn sun-dial, the base 
of whicJi is covered zvith creepers. 

DISCOVERED : Miss Smythe reading a maga- 
zine, seated on bench r. c. After curtain is 
zvell up M. De. Witz enters from l., coming 
down the stairs. 

De Witz. (Speaks from fop of steps) Good- 
afternoon, Mademoiselle. 

Miss Smythe. (Rising. Surprised at seeing 
him) Ah, M. De Witz! 

De Witz. (l. c.) Mademoiselle, I am the 



8 HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

bearer of a letter to her Royal Highness from the 
Kin<.>-. 

Miss Smytiie. (r. c.) Indeed! She will be 
here presently. It must be a message of great irn- 
portance when our Minister of Police delivers it in 
person. 

De Witz. It is — of great importance. 

Miss Smythe. (Going to him) I also have a 
matter of great importance on which I should like 
to consult your Excellence. 

De Witz. (Surprised) Eh — er — delighted. 

Miss Smytiie. My salary. 

De W^itz. Ah? 

Miss Smythe. It is now some eight months in 
arrears. 

De Witz. I congratulate you, mademoiselle. 
(Shakes her hand. She stares at him) With the 
exception of the Chancellor who is also the 
Treasurer you are the only official in the state who 
is owed less than a year's arrears in pay. 

Miss Smytiie. Good gracious! — but what does 
it mean? 

De Witz. It means there is no money, my dear 
lady. For nearly two years no one has been paid. 
The ministers, the army, even the police. (Cross- 
ing R.) It means national bankruptcy. It may 
mean — Sh ! Her Royal Highness. 

(The Princess enters from the steps l. She is a 
girl of about eighteen. Her manner is that of a 
school girl at times, yet that of one who is 
accustomed to command and expects to be 
obeyed.) 

Princess. (Front top of the steps) It seems I 
am interrupting a cabinet council. 

De Witz. (Bozving) Your Royal Highness. 
Princess. (Coming dozvn) M. De Witz, I am 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 9 

glad to see you. {Turning to Miss Smythe) 
Mademoiselle, have you forgotten what I said 
yesterday ? 

Miss Smythe. (c.) I? 

Princess, (l. c.) Every afternoon from five 
this little garden of the sun-dial is to be sacred 
from intrusion. 

Miss Smythe. Your Royal Highness, I know, 
but to-day M. De Witz's coming made it 

Princess. {Crossing r. and smiling at De Witz) 
M. De Witz, does a governess obey a Royal Princess, 
or does a Royal Princess obey her governess? 

De Witz. {Looking at his watch) In this in- 
stance, I think, the question does not arise as it 
still wants twenty minutes of five. 

(Princess crosses to sun-dial and looks at it.) 

Princess. Oh! 

Miss Smythe. (c.) M. De Witz is the bearer 
of a letter from his Majesty. 

Princess, (r. of sun-dial. Girlishly) A letter 
for me ? How nice ! 

De Witz. {Crossing to her) Permit me. 
{Hands her the letter and she crosses and sits on 
bench l. of sun-dial and reads it) A not inauspicious 
mercury, I trust. {Above sun-dial) 

Princess. His Majesty writes that I am to ex- 
pect him this afternoon when he wishes to present 
to me — " someone of whom I am destined to see 
more in the future." {She looks up piizded) Is 
it permitted to inquire who is this someone? 

(De Witz places his finger on his lips as Miss 
Smythe is about to answer.) 

De Witz. I take it, your Royal Highness, that 
it is his Majesty's wish that you should learn that 
from his own lips. 



10 HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

Princess. I see — I'm to have a surprise. 

Miss Smythe. (r. c.) In view of the occasion, 
if I might suggest, Your Royal Highness' costume is 
scarcely one of ceremony. 

Princess. I've no time to change. I've an ap- 
pointment here at five 

De Witz. (c. staring at her) Appointment? 

Miss Smythe. (r. c. Also staring at her) 
Here? 

Princess. (Still seated) Ye-es. (She looks 
from one to the other, then smiles) This is — er — I 
mean — a make-believe appointment. (They wonder 
at her) Every afternoon at five I give audience. 
(Both start) Or rather pretend to give audience. 
(She smiles at their puzzled expressions) You 
see, I'm not permitted to appear at Court — I'm not 
out — and I can't attend receptions or anything — so 
I just make believe being out. This garden is my 
court — here I receive crowds of interesting men. 
Princes, dukes, famous soldiers, great statesmen, 
ambassadors, poets, artists, diplomatists 

De Witz. And no ladies? 

Princess. No — I never thought of them. 
(Laughs) 

De Witz. (Going to her and bowing) No 
matter, Princess. In your presence they would be 
eclipsed. And now, with your permission, I'll go 
back to the Capital to accompany his Majesty. (De 
Witz exits l. 2) 

(Hawthorne whistles off-stage. Miss Smythe 
looks upstage. Hawthorne whistles again.) 

Miss Smythe. What's that? 
Princess. Nothing. Mademoiselle, let us com- 
'promise — I shall wear a hat. 

(All exit L. There is a moment's pause. Sud- 
denly Hawthorne leaps lightly to the top of 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. ii 

the wall tip c. He sits on it and looks about 
the garden and zvhistles softly as if calling 
someone. He listens and as there is no re- 
sponse he jumps dozvn, goes to the steps and 
looks off, then to the summer-house and looks 
around. He sees no one. He makes a gesture 
of disgust — looks at his watch, crossing l. 
There is a noise heard behind the wall up c, 
and he quickly hides behind the stone bench at 
L. c. After considerable effort Blake climbs 
to the top of the zvall, perches there looking 
around. Hawthorne looks up from behind 
the bench — Blake sees him and smiles at 
hitn.) 

Blake. Hello! 

Hawthorne. (Down l. angrily) What are you 
doing here? 

Blake. Just wanted to see what was on this side 
of the wall. 

Hawthorne. (A couple of steps u. c.) You've 
been following me. 

Blake. Well, you certainly don't object, do you? 
(Jumps down) 

Hawthorne. Well, you mustn't come in here. 
Nobody is allowed in here 

Blake, (c.) Well, you're in here, aren't you? 

Hawthorne, (l. c.) But these are private 
grounds. 

Blake. I'll take a chance. (M^alks about r. 
zvhistling. Pause) 

Hawthorne, (c.) Now that you've found me 
— what do you want? 

Blake, (r. c.) I want to tell you that we're 
ready to start for Paris. 

Hawthorne. But there's something wrong with 
the automobile. 

Blake. Another excuse. I fixed all that — all it 
needed was gasoline. 



12 HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

Hawthorne. (Crosses r. and sits on steps) 
Well, it's too late to go to-day. 

Blake. Don't you think you've been carrying 
these excuses about far enough ? You've been hang- 
ing around here for four days when we only in- 
tended staying over night. For two days you had 
me fooled with 3^our stories about not feeling well 
and the motor broken down and all the rest — but 
yesterday I got on to these afternoon strolls of 
yours — always at the same hour — and to-day I've 
found out where you come. (Rises and crosses l., 
looking about) You've chosen a fine old romantic 
spot — I'll say that for you — only needs a girl to 
complete the picture. (Hawthorne rises, goes up 
R.) Where is she? 

Hawthorne. Where is who? 

Blake. Oh, come on, I know I'm easy but I 
wake up sometimes. You've met a girl here and 
tried to keep me from finding it out. 

Hawthorne. (Going to Blake) Well, now, 
what if I have? 

Blake. (Amoves to bench l. and sits on lozver 
arm) That's better. Now tell me about her. 

Hawthorne, (l. c.) What do you want to 
know? 

Blake. Who is she? 

Hawthorne. I don't know. 

Blake. A native? 

Hawthorne. I suppose so. 

Blake. Is she pretty? 

Hawthorne. Is she pretty? No— I've been 
hanging around here for four days talking to an old 
battle-axe. Is she pre — ? (His manner changes) 
Say, Rod — (Goes to him) I'm telling you the 
truth. I don't know her name, and I don't know 
who she is but take it from me you've never seen 
such an absolutely divine 

Blake. All right — I know the rest. (Haw- 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 13 

THORNE goes to c. After a pause Blake continues) 
Has she got a friend? 

Hawthorne. (Looks at Blake. Crosses r., 
then back to Blake) No. 

Blake. Lively for me, isn't it? Sitting around 
in that poverty-stricken Casino — (Sits on bench) 

Hawthorne. (Crosses to Blake r.) I'm not 
going to ask you to stay much longer — honestly. 
But — (Sits R. of Blake on same bench) After I 
saw her that first day I had to see her again — simply 
had to, that's all. You'd have done the same thing 
if you had been in my place. 

Blake. Why didn't you tell me about her? 

Hawthorne. (Rises, goes c.) I didn't like to 
somehow. You see, no girl has ever affected me 
before as this one did. 

Blake. (Rises — goes to him c.) Say — this is 
worse than I thought. You take a tip from me, 
Tony. Clear out of this place quick. Paris, Paris 
my boy, Paris where there are enough girls to go 
around. That's the spot for us. 

Hawthorne. There is no other spot on earth 
for me but this, Rod, and I wish you'd get out and 
go back to the hotel. She may be here at any 
moment. (Crosses to steps, looking at watch) 

Blake, (l. c.) You mean you're not going to 
carry out our plan? 

PTavv^thorne. Of course I am. 

Blake. (Crossing to stone r.) Well, hanging 
around this God-forsaken place doesn't do it. When 
you made that big haul at Monte Carlo you said 
we'd go to Paris and live like kings, and we were 
giving a fine imitation of multi-millionaires until we 
struck this dump. (Sits on stone R.) The papers 
are full of your Monte Carlo experience — they've 
got you down as another Rockefeller. (Taking 
newspaper out of his pocket) They've even got it 
here in Borrovina's Daily Scimitar. Come here, 



14 HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

listen, to this. (Hawthorne sits on arm of bench 
R. c. Blake reads) ** Last Monday night a young 
American named Anthony Hawthorne succeeded in 
breaking the bank at Monte Carlo. It is stated that 
Mr. Hawthorne and his travelling companion, Mr. 
Rodney Blake— (Loo^^ up at Hawthorne and re- 
peats name proudly) Mr. Rodney Blake— were 
strolling through the famous resort with no inten- 
tion of playing when Hawthorne decided to place 
a Louis on No. 5." Lucky five ! 

Hawthorne. Lucky five ! 

Blake. It won and then repeated three times. 
After the first roll Hawthorne kept the lucky num- 
ber covered with gold pieces. He continued to 
play five and all the numbers in the immediate 
vicinity until in something less than two hours the 
croupier announced the bank was closed. It is 
rumored that Mr. Hawthorne is a young man of vast 
wealth. {They both laugh) "All right, George. 
He and Mr. Blake left the next day on a motor 
trip to Paris. Tony, just think : this is more money 
than we ever thought existed. Just imagine what a 
splurge we would make in Paris with everybody 
thinking you own America. 

Hawthorne. (Looks about) Say, Rod, will 
you do me a favor? (Slaps him on back and goes 
up) Please get out of here and go home. 

Blake. By Jove! What do you think of this? 
Kate and her father are in Paris. 

Hawthorne. On the level? (Goes to him and 
takes paper) 

Blake. Look at this list of arrivals from the 
Paris Herald. That — (Rises) settles it. (Crosses 
l.) Paris is the next stop for me. 

Hawthorne. (Dozvn c.) Yes — why don't you 
go to Paris, and I'll join you later? 

Blake, (l. c.) Go to Paris and leave you here 
in the condition you're in ? 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 15 

Hawthorne. But Kate and her father won't 
stay in Paris. They're on their way to Carlsbad, 
aren't they? 

Blake. Well, we could go to Carlsbad. 

Hawthorne. No. {Then suddenly. Both arc 
about c. now) By Jove, I've got it. How would 
you like to have Kate come here ? 

Blake. What? 

Hawthorne. Why of course, that's the very 
thing. Then you could have her all to yourself. 

Blake. What's struck you now? 

Hawthorne. This'll be great. We'll just send 
them a wire. 

Blake. I don't get you at all. 

Hawthorne. You will in a minute. Got a 
pencil ? 

Blake. {Finding one) Yes. 

Hawthorne. Write this 

Blake. But, Tony 

Hawthorne. {Hands him an old envelope) Go 
ahead — write. Kate Ballard — what's their Paris 
address ? 

Blake. Grand Hotel. 

Hawthorne. " Kate Ballard, Grand Hotel, 
Paris." Got that ? " Discovered marvelous spring 
here." (Blake looks at him) Well, he wants to 
go to Carlsbad — sure, the Spring at the Casino, you 
know — go ahead — write it. 

(Blake writes it.) 

Blake. These waters are no good. 

Hawthorne. But he doesn't know that. Posi- 
tive cure for all forms of rheumatism. 

Blake, (l.) Oh, no. 

Hawthorne, (l. c.) Yes, they are — the fellow 
over there told me so this morning. " Positive cure 
for all forms of rheumatism." 

Blake. How do you spell rheumatism? 



i6 HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

Hawthorne. Roomtizm. 

Blake. I can spell it better than that. 

Hawthorne. " Sure to be great benefit to 
Senator — Much better Bad than Carlsbad. This is 
a most beautiful spot." 

Blake. {Writing) j\Iost beautiful spot 

Hawthorne. " Tony and I are waiting for you — 
Love." 

Blake. Would you say Love? 

Hawthorne. You love her, don't you? 

Blake. Sure I do. 

Hawthorne. Then why not say so. Now sign 
it. {Goes up L.) 

Blake. Love. {Goes up c.) Oh, say I wouldn't 
dare send this thing. 

Hawthorne. Sh ! Someone's coming — you go 
to the telegraph office and do what I tell you. {He 
pushes Blake up toward zvall in back) 

Blake. But see here 

Hawthorne. Don't stop to argue. 

Blake. {On zvall) If you don't get back by six 
I'll come after you. 

Hav/thorne. Go on! {He pushes Blake over 
the zvall and throzi's nezvs paper after him. He then 
goes quietly and hides behind the summer house. 
A moment's pause and then the Princess enters 
from l. 2 and looks about. She goes to zvall and 
listens, then slowly comes dozvn to sundial and bends 
over it) 

Princess. Almost five. Dear Hour! {She 
stoops over it and kisses it. In the meantime 
Hawthorne comes from behind the summer house 
and goes tozvard her. When he is near her, she 
turns her head and sees him) 

Hawthorne. (c.) Hello! I hope I didn't 
startle you. 

Princess. (l. c. at dial) Oh, no— only— I 
thought I was alone. 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 17 

Hawthorne. You expected me, didn't you? 

Princess. Why should I? 

Hawthorne. Didn't you tell me yesterday you 
might be here this afternoon? Why should you ex- 
pect me? You don't do yourself justice. {She 
moves L. Of sun-dial) But I suppose I ought not 
to have seen the mark of affection you wasted on 
that thing! (Indicating sun-dial) 

Princess. You mustn't call my sun-dial " that 
thing." 

Hawthorne. What made you kiss it ? 

Princess. I kissed it because it said it was five 
o'clock. 

Hawthorne. {Starts toward her) Did you? 
There must be something awfully fascinating about 
five. It's been awfully lucky to me. Tell me why 
you like it. 

Princess. {Confusedly) Oh, I don't know — 
five o'clock is as good an hour as any other, don't 
you think? 

Hawthorne. I think it's a million times better 
— since I met you. Only all the other hours on the 
clock are jealous. 

Princess. Oh, now you're calling it a clock. 

Hawthorne. Haven't you ever heard a sun-dial 
called a clock ? 

Princess. No. 

Haw^ihorne. I have, that is — a certain kind of a 
clock. 

Princess. What kind? 

Hawthorne. {Blows on dial) It is called a 
lover's clock. When lovers meet they forget that 
such a thing as time exists, and the sun-dial helps 
them do it — it's silent ; it's discreet. When they 
think they have had five minutes of perfect happi- 
ness, it doesn't clang a bell to let them know they 
have been sitting there an hour. The hours steal 
by in silence, and there is no monotonous ticking 



i8 HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

to tell them time is moving. So it never wakes 
lovers from their dreams — it never tells them it is 
time to go. 

Princess. {Naively) Then I'm glad I kissed it, 
I hate hearing it is time to go, don't you ? 

Hawthorne. It's the one thing in the world I'm 
afraid of — now. (Princess crosses to r.) That's 
funny — you were standing by the sun-dial the first 
day I saw you. Were you kissing five o'clock then ? 

Princess. No, I w^as giving audience. Oh, it 
was the strangest thing. 

Hawthorne, (c.) Giving audience? 

Princess, (r. c.) Yes, I was pretending that 
this was my court. I was about to receive a great 
General who led his troops to victory. I looked up 
to see him come before me and there you were, 
climbing over the wall. 

Hawthorne, (c.) Wonderful! And that was 
why you spoke to me as you did? 

Princess, (r. c.) Yes, it seemed so natural- 
just as I were expecting you. 

Hawthorne. And so you invited me in — as if — 
I thought at the time — as if you were a queen. 
(Struck suddenly zvith an idea) Why not play it 
again? You give audience to me. 

Princess. Shall I? Oh, it would be great fun. 

Hawthorne. I'll tell you — you pretend that you 
are a — Royal Princess, eh? (Princess looks at him 
and realizes he has no idea as to her identity) 
What's the matter ? 

Princess, (r.) I was only wondering if I could 
pretend to be a Royal Princess. 

Hawthorne. Why, of course you can — if you 
get stuck I'll help you out— and I'm to be the 
Prince. 

Princess. Oh, no— that wouldn't make it any 
fun at all. 

Hawthorne. Wouldn't it ? W>11, I choose to be 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 19 

somebody important. I want to be somebody who 
everybody bows to and makes way for. 

Princess. I'll tell you who you may be. You 
may be my Minister of Foreign Affairs, and I have 
sent you around the world to find out what all the 
other countries are doing and how we may profit 
by their example. 

Hawthorne. That's just the thing. Here's 
your throne. (Princess sits on bench r. c.) Now, 
I'll go and dress for it. {Exits up steps l. He 
turns his coat inside ont and throzcs it about his 
shoulders as a sort of mantle. The Princess sits 
with great dignity on the bench r. c.) 

Princess. Now, my Lord Chamberlain, we are 
ready to receive the Minister of Foreign Affairs. 

Hawthorne. (Off l.) Ready? 

Princess. Yes. 

Hawthorne. {Enters top of stairs and an- 
nounces) His Royal Minister, the Duke of Monte 
Carlo. {Exits and imitates bugle call, and then re- 
enters and goes to Princess aud bozvs loiv) Prin- 



cess 



Princess. Oh, no, that's not the way at all. 

FIawthorne. Didn't I do it right? 

Princess. (Laughing) Not the least bit. You 
must kneel before me and kiss my hand and you 
mustn't speak until I give you permission. 

Hawthorne. Oh, I see. Well, I'll try it. {He 
goes L. 2, and announces) Make way for the Duke 
of Monte Carlo. {He again imitates bugle call then 
comes over to Princess, throzvs his hat np-stage 
and kneels before her. She holds out her hand 
which he takes in both of his and covers it zvith 
kisses. She draws it away) 

Princess. Speak Carlo. (He looks at her) 
Speak. 

Hawthorne. {Sits back on floor and laughs) 
I can't do it that way. 



20 HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

Princess. Why not? 

Hawthorne. Not after what you said. 

Princess. What T said? 

Hawthorne. Speak, Carlo. Em the Minister of 
Foreign Affairs, you know, and you talked as if I 
were a trained dog. (Rises) You ought to say 
something like — like — " Go on, your story interests 
me." 

Princess. Oh, no, that wouldn't be proper at all. 

Hawthorne. Wouldn't it? Well, it was only a 
suggestion ; now let's try it again. We'll begin where 
I kiss your hand. (He kneels) 

Princess. No, you've done that. Arise, your 
Grace, we are prepared to listen to your reports. 

Hawthorne. (Arises) Oh, most beautiful 
Princess — Oh, most wonderfully adorable Princess 
— most 

Princess. (Still seated) I — I must remind your 
Grace that you are to report on foreign matters. 

Hawthorne. I beg your pardon. Your Royal 
Highness, at your command I have travelled over 
the entire earth — I have carefully studied the con- 
dition of foreign powers and I have to report that — 
(He looks at her) in all my travels I have seen no 
one who for a moment can compare with Your 
Royal Highness. To me you are the most beauti- 
ful — the most 

Princess. (Rises) I mustn't play if you are 
going to talk like that. 

Hawthorne. Em sorry. Ell tell you what — you 
ask me questions and Ell avoid being personal. 

Princess. (Sits again) Very well. (She sits. 
He goes c. and returns) Tell us, Carlo 

Hawthorne. H you don't mind, call me by my 
first name — Monty. 

Princess. Tell us, Monty, of that great country, 
America, of which we hear so much. 

Hawthorne. (She is seated — he stands l. of 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 21 

her) America ! America, your Royal Highness, 
between us, right here in open court, do I tell you 
that America had all other countries beaten a thou- 
sand ways. 

Princess. We are told it is a land of extrav- 
agance — where wealth dominates — where in their 
government wealth even places men in power — are 
we rightly informed, Carlo? 

Hawthorne. We are forced to admit your High- 
ness, that America is not wholly free from the cor- 
rupting influence of money — but what country is? 

Princess. Borrovina! 

(Hawthorne laughs and the Princess is in- 
dignant.) 

Hawthorne. Borrovina! Borrovina, is free 
from money itself, as nearly as I can make out. 

Princess. In Borrovina there are many things 
that come before money. 

Hawthorne. They'd have to if they came at all. 
No, your Highness, what this poor little burgh 
needs is the introduction of new blood — new 
methods. 

Princess. You are unpleasantly frank, sir. 
(Rises and goes r.) 

Hawthorne. (Goes to r. of her) Oh, I say, 
this game isn't going right at all — let's stop playing 
it. There is only one thing in Borrovina that in- 
terests me. Can't you guess what it is? Please let 
me tell you — I must tell you: I love you — I have 
from the first moment I saw you. — 

Miss Smythe. (Calling off-stage l.) Your 
Royal Highness! (A pause. Both look startled. 
Miss Smythe calls again, louder) Your Royal 
Highness ! 

Princess. Presently, mademoiselle. 

Hawthorne. Royal Highness — YOU! (He 



22 HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

exits behind summer house. Miss Smythe enters 
on steps, hurriedly) 

Miss Smythe/ {From top of steps) Princess, 
His Majesty wishes to see you alone, I rushed to 
tell you that — ah! {She curtseys) 

{The King appears at the head of the steps and 
comes down l. He is a relic of a roue with 
refjiement of manner and subtle charm, the 
sequel of hard living in men of aristocratic 
mold.) 

King. Ah, Irma, my dear child, and how are we 
to-day ? 

Princess, (r. c. Curtseys and looks tozvard 
summer house) Very well, and very glad to see 
your Majesty. 

King. (l. c.) H'm, let me see — {Looks closely 
at her) Yes — yes — blooming — positively blooming. 
{He bends dozvn and she kisses him on the cheek) 
M. De Witz has presented my letter? 

Princess, (r. c.) Yes. 

King, (c.) And you have no inkling of the 
purport of my visit? 

Princess. None. 

King. That is as it should be — {Szvings to l. c.) 
That is as it should be — {Sees Miss Smythe zvho is 
still on top of steps) Thank you, mademoiselle. 
(Miss Smythe exits l.) And now, my dear, in the 
first place — let us sit down. {He crosses to bench l. 
and sits dozvn-stage — Princess then sits above him) 
Ah, well, now, what have I come for ? Confess you 
are curious. 

Princess. Yes. 

King. That's right, that's right. I want, my dear 
child, to prepare you for an event, an event that will 
change the whole of your future. 

Princess. {Rising) Mine? 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 23 

King. Yours — and even more, the future of 
Borrovina. The future of Borrovina, my child I 
need hardly say, is a matter of growing anxiety. 
We have always been poor — at this moment we are 
poorer. There are signs that w^e may have to face 
a shortage of money positively unexampled in his- 
tory. 

Princess. Still we can face it — we're used to it. 

King. Perhaps you are right. 

Princess. And is it money that makes people 
really happy? 

King. I can't speak from personal experience, 
my dear. But I believe there is a general impres- 
sion to that effect. But money, or rather the want 
of it, is not our only, nor even our greatest anxiety. 
There is one of which you know little — the intrigues 
of the rival house of Halberstadt. We live, my dear, 
in continual dread of revolution — the ceaseless 
activity of Prince Vladimir has probably never 
troubled you — but 

Princess. {She is standing in front of him) 
Prince Vladimir! But I hate him — I hate him! I 
was broupht up to hate him. I remember my nurses 
would say, " Take care, or the Halberstadt will 
come and eat you." And then the dreadful stories 
the good nuns used to tell me — they said I ought 
to hate him. 

King. Ah, yes. yes — that is — eh — very awkward 
— very, very awkward. Everything is changed now, 
my dear. Vv^e have suddenly ceased hating; Prince 
Vladimir and I are friends 

Princess. Friends? 

King. The best of friends. (He takes her hand 
and she kneels) And you must be friends — very, 
very good friends — you really mustn't hate him, my 
dear — because you are going to be Prince Vladimir's 
wife. 

Princess. I? (Rises) But is isn't possible. 



24 HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

King. In diplomacy everything is possible. A 
treaty, my dear, a treaty signed to-day, between the 
house of Oberitch and the house of Halberstadt — 
after spending a century at each other's throats, 
we are now weeping on each other's bosoms — it is an 
entente cordiale. 

Princess. It is ridiculous — I — I am to be mar- 
ried to a man I hate? 

King. I am afraid that things rather point that 
way, my dear 

Princess. Whom I have been taught to hate — 
because he's the enemy 

King. (Rises and goes to her at c.) Can you 
conceive a more truly Christian revenge than to 
marry him ? 

Princess. But I don't want to marry him — it's 
horrible — I don't want to marry anybody. (Moves 

to R. C.) 

King. You inherit that — (Rises) from me — I 
never wanted to marry. But I did it as a duty, yet 
Heaven unaccountably refused to reward my self- 
sacrifice with sons. {Coming to her c.) It is your 
turn now, my dear, as a duty. You are in a position 
to render your country a tremendous service. This 
treaty is a great gain for Borrovina. It means an 
end of revolution — peace — security — the succession 
to the throne guaranteed forcA^er to Prince Vladimir 
and his heirs — your heirs — my heirs. 

Princess. (Sobbing) Why, why couldn't I have 
been married to someone I could love ? 

King. The price of royalty, my dear. The seat 
of our affections is not in the heart, but the foreign 
office. Come, come, you mustn't cry — the Prince 
and the Chancellor will be here at any moment. 
Do not let them find you in tears. There, there, 
there — remember this marriage isn't forced on us. 
We do it proudly, willingly, royally. (She draws 
herself up) That's right— that's brave! 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 25 

(Prince Vladimir enters preceded by General 
HoHENLOE and followed by Adamovic and the 
Chancellor, Count Ivan. The General 
comes down the stage and salutes the King. 
Ivan allows the Prince to pass hhn and then 
comes down the steps to the l. c. The King 
is up R., the Prince c. and the Princess r. c.) 

General. (Speaks as he comes down) His 
Hiohness, Prince Vladimir Halberstadt. 

King. (u. r. c.) Ah, Prince, you enjoyed your 
drive, eh? 

Prince, (c.) It took plenty of time. Your 
Majesty's horses are not exactly fast. 

Adamovic. (u. l.) The impatience of a lover, 
sire. (Goes to Prince) Tact, tact, your Highness, 
more tact, I beg of you. 

King. Yes. Irma, let me present to you his 
Highness, Prince Vladimir Peter Paul Bojidar 
Halberstadt. (Turns to Prince) Her Royal High- 
ness, the Princess Irma Augusta Elizabeth of Bor- 
rovina. (Crosses l. c. The Prince comes to 
Princess, kneels and kisses her hand — then rises) 

Prince. The diplomatists have settled it that we 
are to be married. If you are willing — so am I. 
What more need we say? (Crosses to King. 
General and Adamovic step down and bozv to 
Princess) The Princess is quite fair but small, 
your Majesty. You Oberitches are a race of little 
people. 

King. H'm ! So was Napoleon, so was Julius 
Caesar, so are the Japanese. 

Adamovic. (Behind the Prince) Your High- 
ness, tact, tact, more tact, I beg of you. 

Prince. General, I shall inspect the xA.rmy to- 
morrow. 

Genearl. (Saluting) Highly honored. High- 
ness., 



26 HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

King. {To Ivan who is down l. in front of 
bench) Frankly, he is impossible. We have swal- 
lowed fifteen insults since lunch. 

{During this action and the next few lines the 
General and Adamovic congratulate the Prin- 
cess. Prince moves up c. and talks to the 
General.) 

De Witz. {Enters l. 2. To King down l., back 
of bench) I crave your pardon, sire, but your 
Majesty is due at the Town Hall in twenty minutes. 

King. H'm! yes, yes. {To Prince) Prince, I 
fear our arrangements take us back to the Capital. 
You will bid her Royal Highness au revoir, until the 
formal betrothal to-night. 

(Prince kisses Princess' hand. King zvith Ivan 
L., others are up c. in a group. As the Prince 
bends over the Princess' hand Hawthorne 
looks out from behind the summer house and the 
Prince sees him — he looks behind the house. 
He looks at the Princess and zvithdraws to 
the group up c.) 

Ivan. (l. of King) Remember, sire, economy. 

King. (l. c. De Witz down c.) Am I apt to 
forget it ? Ah ! although full ceremonial will be 
observed at the reception to-night, there will be no 
supper. The court circles in Borrovina eat at home 
— pray make your arrangements accordingly. 
{Crosses to Princess. De Witz to Ivan l. of 
dial) To-night, my dear, you will make your first 
appearance at court. Eat a good dinner so that you 
may go through the trying ordeal with the spirit and 
dignity of your race. {She kisses him on the cheek) 
Prince! {The King and Prince exit l. 2nd, fol- 
lozved by all the others, Ivan and De Witz bow, 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 27 

then go l. 2. Adamovic salutes and follows others 
L. 2nd. The Princess remains where she was. 
Hawthorne enters at r. and kneels at the feet of 
the Princess as the last of the officers depart) 

Princess. (c.) You heard? (Hawthorne 
nods yes) Can you forgive me for not telling who 
I was ? Can you ? 

Hawthorne. May Carlo speak? 

Princess. Don't make fun of me. 

Hawthorne. (Rises) Make fun of you. Why, 
Princess, I'd as soon think of making fun of the 
angels in Heaven. Have you ever seen that — that 
— Prince before? 

Princess. Never. 

Hawthorne. And your father calmly tells you, 
you are engaged to marry him after you've said you 
hate him ? Why, the thing's preposterous — barbaric ! 
Such a thing could never happen in America. 

Princess. (By dial) Who are you? What is 
your rank in America? 

Hawthorne, (c.) My name is Anthony Hamil- 
ton Hawthorne — only those three — and I'm an 
American citizen. 

Princess. An ordinary citizen? 

Hawthorne. No, not an ordinary citizen — an 
American citizen in love v/ith a Royal Princess. 

Princess. In Borrovina a citizen wouldn't dare 
fall in love with a Princess. 

Hawthorne. I didn't fall in love with a Prin- 
cess — I fell in love with a little girl in a garden, and 
I'm not going to have her throw her chance of 
happiness away by marrying a man she hates. 

Princess. But I must marry Prince Vladimir. 
It's for the good of my country. 

Hawthorne. To blazes with the country. 
(Princess is offended) I wouldn't say anything to 
hurt you for the v/hole earth, but your little finger 
is worth more than a dozen joke countries like this. 



28 HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

Princess. How can you speak of my country in 
such a way? The country I love beyond anything. 
This is my first opportunity to serve it and I mustn't 
fail, n you have meant what you said, prove it by 
not making it harder for me. 

Hawthorne. Making it harder for you? Why, 
Princess, I'd give my life to help you — I love you. 

Princess. You mustn't — it would be hopeless. 
Even if I were free, I could never be anything to a 
citizen. The law of our existence forbids it. There's 
one thing you can do for me : say " Good-bye." 
{She goes to steps l.) 

(Hawthorne follows her — with a new idea.) 

Hawthorne. But I'm sure I could do something 
if you'd let me try. {She goes up a few steps. He 
goes up, too) Why do you say it makes it harder 
for you? 

Princess. Will you go away and not see me again 
if I tell you ? 

Hawthorne. If that is your wish — yes. 

Princess. You can't help me because I have de- 
cided what I must do — and you make it harder for 
me — because I love you. 

Hawthorne. {Steps tozvard her as if to take 
her in his arms) Princess ! 

Princess. Remember your promise — {She goes 
up steps and off l.) 

(Hawthorne slowly turns and goes l. and stands a 
moment in thought, then goes up c. and leaps 
over the wall.) 

Curtain 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 29 



ACT n 

Scene : A large room in the Casino in Oheron, used 
as a hotel. Down r. is a desk zvith chair behind 
it and small register on desk. Behind the desk 
is small key-board with keys and pigeon holes 
for mail. Stairzvay at r. leading to bedrooms 
above. Entrance from street is l. 2nd, — double 
doors. Door up r., tinder the stairzvay, leading 
to coffee room. Large opening in the rear lead- 
ing to balcony zvhich is up three steps from 
stage. The steps are same width as opening. 
The back drop shows the town of Oberon with 
its old and dilapidated buildings. The room is 
high ceiling ed and bare, excepting a table c, 
couch up L., and several chairs about the room. 

At rise : M. Frederick seated r. of desk r. is dis- 
covered making out a bill. A band is playing a 
anarch in the distance accompanied by cheers. 
While the band is playing, the nezvspaper Re- 
porter enters hurriedly L. 

Reporter. {Goes to Frederick) M. Frederick, 
I want you to give me some information. It's very- 
important to me. 

Frederick. Well ? 

Reporter. Is there a Mr. Hawthorne stopping 
here? 

Frederick. Yes, Mr. Anthony Hamilton Haw- 
thorne — I am making up his account now. 

Reporter. When did he come? 

Frederick. A week ago. He and his friend Mr. 
Blake. 

Reporter. You don't mean those two Americans ? 

Frederick. Yes 

Reporter. So Anthony Hamilton Hawthorne has 



30 HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

been stopping at the capital over a week and I did 
not know it. {Takes stage to c.) 

Frederick. You speak as if you were acquainted 
with Mr. Hawthorne. 

Reporter, (c.) We printed two stories about 
him — didn't you see them? 

Frederick. I have seen nothing — I never read 
your papers. What were the stories about? 

Reporter. About his breaking the bank at Monte 
Carlo — (Frederick looks up) the most phenomenal 
run of luck known there in years. He's one of 
America's big millionaires. 

Frederick. Mr. Hawthorne a millionaire? 

Reporter. Many times over — according to the 
news reports. (Frederick tears up hill he has been 
making out and begins another one) I'll have a 
great account of him in to-night's paper. He was 
here under an assumed name, you say? 

Frederick. Don't publish that — you may get me 
into trouble. 

Reporter. {Looking over register, and copying a 
few names hurriedly) Oh, Til keep you out of it. 
And this Senator Ballard and his daughter — are they 
friends of Mr. Hawthorne? 

Frederick. Evidently. Mr. Blake telegraphed 
them to Paris — he advised them to come here so 
that Senator Ballard might take the waters. He 
suffers from rheumatism, I believe. 

Reporter. {Laughing) Much good those waters 
will do him. {Crosses to c.) 

Frederick. {Rises and goes to him) Such talk 
is no help for my business — these springs are good 
enough, remember that. 

Reporter. Then why don't people come here? 

Frederick. Why should they come? This 
country is in such a forlorn, demoralized condition 
that a tourist's first thought, after seeing it, is to 
get away. 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 31 

Reporter. Well, cheer up, M. Frederick, times 
may improve. 

Frederick. So I thought years ago when I leased 
this Casino and made of it an hotel — but long since 
I gave up all hope of improvement. There is no 
chance under the present government. (Crosses 
back to desk. The boom of a cannon and a march 
played by a band is heard in the distance. Reporter 
goes out on balcony. Frederick returns to the desk 
and zvrites) There — now they are saluting the 
cause of all our trouble. 

Reporter. What do you mean? 

Frederick. The King. 

Reporter. That's not the King: it's for Prince 
Vladimir. He's reviewing the troops at the fort. 
It's the King's birthday and yet it is the Prince who 
is the center of attraction. 

Frederick. And is the King not there? 

Reporter. No, the royal birthday party will come 
along later. Poor Augustus! (Reporter comes 
down to desk) 

Frederick. Poor Augustus? Poor citizens — 
poor Frederick — Ugh ! I've no sympathy for him. 

Reporter. That's almost the tone of a revolu- 
tionist. 

Frederick. And if it is — who can blame me? 
The condition of things — (Hawthorne enters top 
of stairs r. and comes down. Reporter signals to 
Frederick not to speak. He zvears a sack suit and 
carries a suit-case and motor-coat over his arm. 
Puts suit-case l. of desk. Frederick rises) Is your 
excellency ready to leave? 

Hawthorne, (l. and near desk) Excellence? 
No my excellence isn't going until after lunch. 
Where's my excellence's bill? 

Frederick. (Behind desk r.) I am preparing it 
now. 



Z2 HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

(Reporter is up above table watching Haw- 
thorne.) 

Hawthorne. Why, is it an all-day job? 

Frederick. There are even more items than I 
imagined. 

Hawthorne. (Starts up c.) Well, don't let 
your imagination run away with you. (Returns to 
desk) And I want luncheon for four at two o'clock. 
The best you can dig up — order it yourself and go 
as far as you like. 

Frederick. (Starts for door u. r.) I shall see 
to it at once, excellency. 

Hawthorne. That's right. 

(Frederick exits up r. as Reporter comes l. of 
Hawthorne.) 

Reporter. Pardon, Mr. Hawthorne. 

Hawthorne, (l. near desk) Well? 

Reporter, (r. of Hawthorne) May I beg of 
your excellence the favor of an interview? 

Hawthorne. What about? 

Reporter. Fll take anything your excellence will 
give me. 

Hawthorne. (Feeling in his pocket) A Bor- 
rovinian touch ! 

Reporter. It will be of great interest to our 
readers. It is not often we have a great capitalist 
in our city. 

Hawthorne. Oh, you're a newspaper reporter? 

Reporter. (With great pride) I represent the 
Borrivinian Scimitar. 

Hawthorne. Well, think of that ! 

Reporter. If your excellence would tell me how 
you acquired your great fortune? 

Hawthorne. (Sits on desk r.) My great 
fortune ! I'll tell you a funny thing about that— you 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 33 

may not believe it, but it's true — I worked harder 
to get my first million than I have for all the rest 
of my fortune put together. 

Reporter. (Thunderstruck) Really? 

Hawthorne. The secret is not to spend all you 
earn. Even if I make less than a hundred thou- 
sand a day I manage to save something out of it — 
and — er — let it accumulate — get together — see? 

Reporter. (Thunderstruck) Yes, I see. And 
now what is your excellence's opinion of Borrovina? 

Hawthorne. Do you want me to tell you ? 

Reporter. If you'll be good enough? 

Hawthorne. Out loud? 

Reporter. Certainly. 

Hawthorne. Why, I think — that Borrovina is — 
you're going to publish this? (Reporter nods) 
I think that Borrovina is very cute. I don't see how 
you find anything to write about. 

Reporter. At present Prince Vladimir is keep- 
ing us busy. 

Hawthorne. Is he? What is he doing? (Goes 
toward Reporter) 

Reporter. He is making himself very popular — 

Hawthorne. At the expense of the King. Oh, 
I see — the people blame the King for the bad condi- 
tion of the country — is that it? 

Reporter. The Prince is promising to bring about 
a change. 

Hawthorne. How can he bring about a change? 
He's not a king. 

Reporter. No, but 

Hav/thorne. But — you mean, the people would 
welcome a change and 

Reporter. And the Prince listens to the voice of 
the people. 

Hawthorne. What does the voice of the people 
say? Come on, you can tell me — etc. (Ad lib.) 

Reporter. The voice of the people, excellence, 



34 HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

is stifled to murmurs — murmurs not loud enough to 
be heard by those in power — but at any moment 
they are Hkely to grow into cries of protest. 

Hawthorne. And then what would be the out- 
come ? 

Reporter. I cannot say. (Kate Ballard and 
Blake enter l. Kate is an American girl with an 
independent manner. She is about tzventy-tzvo. 
Blake precedes her, opening the door for her. 
Kate crosses to c, leaving Blake l. c. Haw- 
thorne R. c. Reporter belozv desk) 

Blake. Here's Tony now. 

Hawthorne. (To Reporter) Pardon me a 
moment. (Reporter goes r. a little. Hawthorne 
crosses him l.) Hello — enjoy your walk? 

Blake. We've been on the terrace watching the 
review. 

Hawthorne. Oh ! 

Blake. Kate wants to talk to you about that 
telegram, Tony — I'll go up 

Kate. I want to talk to both of you. 

Hawthorne. (To Reporter) Excuse me a 
minute — I want to talk to Miss Ballard, Senator 
Ballard's daughter. I'd like to have a chat with you 
later. 

Reporter. I'll go below, excellence. (Goes up 
and exits r. Hawthorne turns to Kate) 

Kate. Now, can't we have this mystery cleared 
up? 

Hawthorne, (r. c.) What mystery? 

Kate. (To Hawthorne) Do you know where 
father is? 

Hawthorne. (To Blake) Do you know where 
father is? 

Rodney, (l. c.) No. 

Kate, (c, in front of table) Rod hasn't seen 
him — have you ? 

Hawthorne, (r. c.) Why — er — ^no. 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 35 

Kate. Why are you both avoiding him? 

Hawthorne. (With a little laugh) Why — what 
makes you think ? 

Kate. I know you are. First I get that frantic 
wire from Rod. I tell father he mustn't think of 
going anywhere else — we've simply got to come 
here — no other springs compare with these for 
rheumatism. I change all our plans — think we're 
coming to a paradise — get to this awful place and 
find you boys afraid to see father and about to 
leave. Now I want to know what it all means. 
(She sits on edge of table) 

(Rodney and Hawthorne eye each other.) 

Blake. Yes, Tony, tell her about that wire. 

Hawthorji^^e. What wire? 

Blake. The wire you sent. 

Hawthorne. You sent 

Bi-AKE. But you dictated it. 

Hawthorne. You signed it. 

Blake. Well? 

Hawthorne. Well ? 

Kate. Well what? 

Hawthorne. Well, you see Kate, Rod sent that 
message — er — impulsively — (Blake goes up l.) 
You know. He knew that you and your father 
were were in Paris and was so anxious to see you — 

Kate. Oh, no — that excuse won't go. It doesn't 
take any longer to go from here to Paris than it 
does from Paris here. 

Blake. (Coining dozvn l.) But Tony wouldn't 
leave here. 

Kate, (c.) Oh, Tony wouldn't leave — why? 

Blake, (l. c.) He's taken a sudden interest 
in — (Hawthorne looks at him) Botany. 

Kate. Botany ? 

Blake. Well, some sort of garden work. I 
didn't like to leave him and it wasn't until after 



36 HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

I'd sent you that wire that I found these springs 
were no good. 

Hawthorne. Bonehead ! 

Kate. (Rises and goes to Blake) Do you mean 
to tell me these springs are — {Turns back to Haw- 
thorne) No wonder you haven't seen father. 

Hawthorne, (r. c.) Oh, I'll explain it to the 
Senator, all right. 

Kate, (c.) I should like to know how. 

Hawthorne. I'll tell him we didn't realize how 
bad the acommodations were when we asked him to 
come and we'll all get away before he finds the 
waters won't do him any good. 

Kate. If you think you can fool father like that 
you're greatly mistaken. You'd better tell him the 
truth. He'll be perfectly furious. (Goes r.) 

Blake. (To Hawthorne) Nice mess you got 
us into. (Goes up l.) 

(Senator Ballard enters l. with a thermos bottle 
in his hand and a slight limp in his foot. They 
all try to run aivay as Senator enters. Kate 
goes upstairs — Hawthorne goes up r. and 
Blake up steps c. Senator sees Blake and 
goes to him, greeting him heartily.) 

Senator. Why, hello, Rodney! I've been look- 
ing all over the place for you — you look fine — trip's 
done you good. (Crosses to Hawthorne. Combes 
c.) x\nd hello, Tony. Bless your heart — where 
have you been keeping yourselves — why didn't you 
look me up? 

Hawthorne, (r. c.) You got ahead of us at 
breakfast. 

Senator. (Blake l. c, Senator c, Haw- 
thorne R. c, Kate doivn r.) Come here, you fel- 
lows. Say, I want to tell you something about this 
place 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 37 

Hawthorne. Now, Senator — we know all about 
this place. It's wonderful how different a thing 
seems when you look at it one way to what it seems 
when you look at it in another — isn't it, Rod? 

Senator. What are you driving at? 

Hawthorne. Oh, our getting you and Kate to 
come here — we see now that it was a mistake — but 



we- 



Senator. No, it wasn't a mistake. I'd got to a 
worse place than this to get the benefit of these 
springs. {He looks from Rodney to Hav/thorne, 
and they each straighten up) I'm actually feeling 
better already. I haven't been so free from rheu- 
matism in ten years as I am this minute. I'm going 
to send some of this water away for analysis — it's 
a shame more people don't know about it. This poor 
idiot has a gold mine here if he'd manage it properly. 
{He turns to Blake zvho has been laughing, hut 
immediately sobers up) 

Blake. {Comes to Senator) He's giving it up 
shortly — the Casino is government property. 

Senator. Then why doesn't the government do 
something with it? 

Blake. I suppose it hasn't any faith. You see, 
nobody around here thinks these waters are any 
good. 

(Hawthorne goes up-stage, disgusted.) 

Senator. Is that so ? Then how did you happen 
to find out they were so wonderful ? 

Blake. Eh? 

Senator. You said in your telegram these were 
the best springs in the world. 

Blake, (l. c.) Yes, sir. 

Senator, (c.) How did you come by that 
knowledge ? 

Blake. I tasted them. 

Senator. I didn't know you had rheumatism. 



38 HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

Blake. I haven't, but one mouthful of that water 
convinced me that nature had intended it for some- 
thing worse than a thirst. {Goes l.) 

Senator. I'm beginning to think I've been the 
victim of a conspiracy. 

Blake. (Com^^ &ac^ fo l. 0/ Senator) Ah, but 
you say the waters are helping you, Senator. 

Hawthorne. {Comes down r. of Senator) 
The waters are helping you, Senator. 

Senator. It's a damn fortunate thing for you 
they are. I'm feeling so much better that I've de- 
cided to give them a thorough trial. I shall stay 
here a month at least. 

Kate. Then I'll attend to unpacking. {Starts 
for stairs r.) 

Blake. I'll help you, Kate. 

(Kate and Rodney go upstairs and exit. Haw- 
thorne starts off R.) 

Hawthorne. I'll go, too. 

Senator. Say, Tony, come here. (Hawthorne 
returns r.) Is it true you were gambling at Monte 
Carlo? 

Hawthorne. Yes — that's true. 

Senator. Bad thing — gambling. 

Hawthorne. Usually — but I won. 

Senator. H'm. How much? 

Hawthorne. A bundle. 

Senator. Ten thousand dollars? 

Hawthorne. More than ten times that. 

Senator. Good God ! And got away from 
Monte Carlo with it? 

Hawthorne. Yes — got it with me — right here. 

Senator. Where? 

Hawthorne. {Indicates suit-case) In there — 

Senator. In — in there? Do you mean to tell 
me — you — have — a hundred thousand dollars in that 
bag? 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 39 

Hawthorne. Yes. 

(Senator goes up to chair r. of table and sits. He 
wipes his face zvith his handkerchief.) 

Senator. Why didn't you deposit it in a bank ? 

Hawthorne. Here in a Borrovinian bank? I'll 
deposit it when I get to Paris. (Crosses l.) 

Senator. And then what will you do with it? 

Hawthorne. (Faces Senator) Oh, I don't 
know — blow it, I suppose. 

Senator. Blow it — I didn't think you were as 
big a fool as that. 

Hawthorne. Senator, I'm a bigger fool than that 
and I only found it out the other day. (Sits l. c.) 

Senator. (Sits l. of table) Tony, do you realize 
that fate has thrown a fortune into your lap — that 
this money is enough to take care of you as long as 
you live? 

Hawthorne. I've always had enough to live on. 

Senator. Enough for a dozen to live on — and 
spent it as fast as you got it. At present you are 
out of a position 

Hawthorne. That's because the other party was 
elected, but I'll find a job when I get back. I've no 
one to look after but myself and 

Senator. But you will have when you marry. 

Hawthorne. (Gravely) I shan't marry. 

Senator. I said that once. 

(March music heard off.) 

Hawthorne. You see, Senator, this isn't real 
money. I didn't earn it and half of it belongs to 
Rod — but he won't take it so I thought we'd spend 
it together. 

(Voices of people heard upstage under the balcony. 
Kate and Rodney come quickly downstairs r.) 



40 HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

Kate. The Prince and a lot of officers are coming 
into the Casino. Come and see him, father. 

Senator. Come along — let's see what he's like. 
{He follows Kate out on the balcony) 

Blake. (Goes to Hawthorne l. c.) Well, can 
you beat that for luck — after all our worrying he 
thinks the waters are great ! 

Hawthorne, (l.) Shows what imagination will 
do. 

Blake, (l. c.) Well, you might as well have 
your things unpacked — we're here for a month. 

Hawthorne. I'm not. (Crossing r.) I'm going 
this afternoon. 

(Blake follows him.) 

Blake. By Jove, Kate was right — there is some- 
thing the matter with you. Tell me the truth — is it 
about that girl in the garden ? 

Hawthorne, (r. Looks at Blake) Yes, that's 
it. 

Blake. (l. of Hawthorne) What's the 
trouble? Has another gardener jumped over the 
wall? 

Hawthorne. I'm afraid there has. 

Blake. Cut him out. 

Hawthorne. Can't be done. Rod. 

Blake. Don't tell me — I know your work. 

Hawthorne. It doesn't go here. 

Blake. Who is she? 

Hawthorne. I suppose you might as well know 
— it's her Royal Highness, Princess Irma. 

Blake. (Loiidly) The Princess Irma 1 

(Voices.) 

Hawthorne. Sh ! 

Blake. I see — that's tough. (Blake goes up l. 
Hawthorne dozvn l.) 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 41 

(Kate comes down l. of desk — Senator comes 
from balcony. Frederick enters R.) 

Senator. {Comes into room up l. c.) The 
Prince seems to be a great admirer of himself, 

Frederick. (Comes dozvn hack of desk) Should 
you wish to see the King — his Majesty and the 
Princess are coming up the avenue in the Royal 
Carriage — they will pass here presently. 

Kate. Oh, splendid ! Send up to my room and 
get my kodak — it's on the bureau, I think — please 
hurry. {Goes up to balcony) 

Frederick. I'll go myself, mademoiselle. {He 
goes up the stairs r. Senator goes to balcony. 
During this action distant mingled boohs and cheers 
are heard — and grozv louder to indicate the passing 
of a carriage in the street) 

Senator. (Senator is R. Kate is c. 07i balcony) 
Here they come, Kate. 

{They face r.) 

Kate. Come on, boys. {She joins the Senator) 
Blake. Don't you want to see her again, Tony? 
Hawthorne. I'd better not. 

(Blake joins Kate and Senator on the balcony.) 

Senator. What's the matter v/ith the crowd — 
why don't they cheer? Hip — hip hurray 

(Kate and Rodney join in the cheer as does the 
crozvd below.) 

Kate. Oh, isn't the Princess a beauty? 

Blake. I should say she is. {Comes dozvn to 
Hawthorne) No wonder you lingered — all is for- 
given. {Goes up again to balcony) 

Senator. The King doesn't appear to be very 
popular. 



42 HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

(Frederick comes dozvn with camera.) 

Kate. See, the Princess is looking up here — 
(Hawthorne joins them on the balcony) Oh, dear, 
why doesn't he come with my camera? 

(Frederick comes down the stairs r. quickly with 
the camera. The noise outside grows louder. 
Rodney waves his hand which is cue for shots. 
Tzvo shots are heard, folloived by screams. 
Kate yells and Blake takes her into the room 
and she crouches dozvn up r. Hawthorne 
leaps over the balcony. The Senator runs into 
the room to see if Kate is all right. Frederick 
runs down l.) 

Frederick. Mon Dieu ! They have shot his 
Majesty! Thev have killed the King! (He rushes 
off L.) 

Blake. Are you all right? 

Kate. Yes, Rod, what is it? 

Blake. Someone took a shot at the King. 

Senator. Where's Tony? 

(Blake rushes to the balcony, looks dozvn and then 
starts to climb over. He is follozved by Kate 
and the Senator.) 

Blake. Great Scott ! He's in the midst of it. 

Senator. (Senator and Kate take hold of him 
as he starts to jump over) Keep back, Rodney. 

Blake. (On the rail) But Tony is in some 
kind of a mix-up. 

Kate. Rod, Rod — don't you dare leave 

Blake. But, Tony. 

Senator. He'll take care of himself. That boy 
lives on trouble. 

Kate. Look — they're coming in here with the 
Princess. (Comes into the room) Get some 
brandy, father, quick — and I'll get my smelling salts. 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 43 

(She goes upstairs r. Senator follozvs her r. to 
stairs) 

Senator. I haven't got any brandy. 

Blake. I'll get some — I want to see what's hap- 
pened to Tony. (Exits l.) 

Senator. (Follozving Blake to door l.) If 
you find Tony you'll forget all about it. Here, land- 
lord, what's your name — This is a hell of a place to 
come to for rest and quiet. (Exits up r. taking his 
thermos bottle. Frederick enters l. with three life 
guards carrying the Princess and one other guard 
zvho helps Frederick carry the couch down c. 
Kate runs downstairs zvith cushions and smelling 
salts and takes charge of affairs) 

Kate. Draw that couch over here. 

Frederick. Yes, mademoiselle. (Frederick and 
Officer put couch c. Officers place Princess on 
couch) 

Kate. Is she hurt? 

Officer. No, mademoiselle — she has only fainted. 

(Kate holds the salts to the Princess's nose. To 
Frederick. " Get me a fan — or a newspaper — 
or something." Two officers stand at head — 
two at foot.) 

Frederick. (Gets newspaper from desk — Kate 
is behind couch) Will this answer, mademoiselle? 

Kate. Thank you. (She fans the Princess who 
revives slowly. Frederick exits up r.) 

Officer, (l. To Guard) Report to his Majesty 
that her Royal Highness has revived. 

(Guard salutes and exits l.) 

Princess. What place is this? 
Kate. (Kate is behind sofa above Princess) 
Why, this is the hotel — over the Casino, you know. 



44 HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

Princess. (Sits up suddenly and looks about) 
Where's my father? 

Officer. (Is at l. end of couch) His Majesty 
is unhurt, your Royal Highness. The Chancellor 
and the Minister of Police are with him — he will be 
here presently. I am in attendance if there is any- 
thing your Royal Highness requires. 

(Princess sinks back on couch.) 

Princess. His Majesty has sent this lady to me? 

Kate. No, your Royal Highness — I just hap- 
pened to be here. I am stopping at the Casino, you 
see, and as there was nothing but men around, I 

took the liberty of 

. Princess. You are very good. 

Kate. Oh, don't speak of it. If I can be of any 
assistance I shall be very glad. Is there anything 
your Highness would like? 

Princess. Thank you, no. I feel quite all right 
now that I know my father is safe. I never fainted 
before in my life — it was all so horrible. 

Kate. There, try not to think about it. 

(Officer c, places a guard.) 

Princess. May I know whom I'm to thank for 
all her kindness? 

Kate. My name is Katherine Ballard and I'm 
an American. 

Princess. (Suddenly lets her hand drop into 
her lap) American! Oh, yes — you were on the 
balcony. 

Kate. Yes — and you were looking up at us just 
as they sho — (She stops) I mean you were looking 
up at us. 

Princess. (Looking about) I — er — I thought 
there was someone with you. 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 45 

Kate. Yes — my father and two friends. 

Princess. (Shyly) American friends? 

Kate. Oh, yes — Mr. Blake and Mr. Hawthorne. 

Princess. Mr. Hawthorne ! I've heard of Mr. 
Hawthorne. 

Kate. Really? Tony never goes anywhere with- 
out being heard of. 

Princess. (Slowly) His name is Tony? 

Kate. That's a pet name, you know. 

(Princess sits up. Blake enters from l. and 
Senator from r. They both carry a bottle of 
brandy. Guards step in front of each blocking 
their way.) 

Blake. Here's the brandy, Kate. ) „ , . 
Senator. I've got it at last. ( (Together) 

(Two officers on either side of Senator and Blake 
block the zvay.) 

Kate. (Still back of sofa) I don't think we 
want it now. 

Princess. You may present your friends, Miss 
Ballard. 

Kate. (Moves to r. of sofa) Oh, may I ? My 
father, Senator Ballard, your Royal Highness. 

Senator. (As he bozvs he notices he has bottle, 
which he quickly hides. He retires up c. Guards 
step back) Honored! 

Kate, (r.) Mr. Rodney Blake, (l. c.) 

(Blake comes dozvn and bows azvkzvardly and 
Hawthorne a^id the Reporter enter l.) 

PIawthorne. (l. of Blake) Say Rod — this 
fellow here — (Sees the Princess) I beg your 
pardon. 



46 HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

Kate. (On sofa) This is Mr. Hawthorne, your 
Royal Highness. 

(Hawthorne crosses to l. of Princess and kneels 
on one knee. The Princess is about to extend 
her hand but decides not to do so.) 

Princess. You have come from the street, Mr. 
Hawthorne ? 

Hawthorne. Yes. 

Princess. I have heard no particulars of 

Hawthorne. (Kneeling) Everything is all 
right now, your Highness. They've caught the chap 
who caused the trouble. You mustn't be exposed 
to such dangers again. 

Princess. Oh, such scenes are most unusual in 
Borrovina. I am sorry you should have witnessed 
it. 

(Officer who has ben at door l. steps down.) 

Officer. His Majesty! (Then stands above 
door L.) 

(Hawthorne and Reporter go up on balcony. 
King enters preceded by tzvo guards and fol- 
lozved by Ivan. The other guards salute. The 
King stops when he is well in the room and 
looks about. He sees the Princess and goes to 
her L. Ivan goes up r.) 

King. (Princess rises) Irma, my child, are you 
safe? 

Princess. Oh, yes. This American lady — and 
her friends have been very kind. 

King. (Turns and looks up) We thank you. 

(Senator goes to door l., snaps his fingers at 
Rodney, zvho joins him. They stand facing the 
King.) 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 47 

Senator. With your Majesty's permission we 
will withdraw. (Nudges Blake) Bow! 

(They bow low and exit.) 

Princess. I congratulate your Majesty on your 
escape. 

King. (l. c.) Our birthday was very nearly a 
dual anniversary. It is necessary for you to remain 
here for a while before returning to the palace — 
there still seems to be a feeling of unrest in the 
streets. {A step or two up) 

Kate. (King stops) May I be permited to 
offer your Royal Highness my apartment ? 

Princess. {A little surprised) You are very 
kind. And if you do not mind I shall be pleased 
to have you come with me. 

Kate. With pleasure, your Highness. {Gets 
Princess's hat on the table) 

Princess, li your Majesty will consent? 

King. We shall be very grateful. 

(Kate steps down for the Princess to pass her and 
Princess precedes Kate up the stairs. As they 
go up there is a look of recognition bet^veen 
Hawthorne, on balcony, and the Princess. 
Guards go to positions on stairs, doors, etc.) 

King. {To Ivan) It is a pity that her Highness 
was unattended. 

Ivan. {Coming down r.) Her Royal Highness' 
Governess has been summoned, your majesty. 

King. {To Princess) She will come for you 
when it is safe to leave. 

(Princess and Kate bow and exit up r.) 

De Witz. (De Witz enters hurriedly) Sire! 
(Officer guards the door and draws the curtains.) 

King. Ah, De Witz, what have you to report? 



48 HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

De Witz. My investigations thus far, Sire, con- 
vince me that it was the unaccountable act of a mad- 
man. 

King. Ah! Has Prince Vladimir been sum- 
moned ? 

De Witz. Yes, Sire, the Prince is now waiting 
below. 

Hawthorne. (Coynes down l.) Your Majesty — 

(De Witz turns quickly, as guard steps betzveen 
Hawthorne and the King.) 

De Witz. It was this American gentleman, your 
Majesty, who first laid hands on your assailant. 
(Moves a couple steps toward l.) 

(Guard withdrazvs up l.) 

King. Is it indeed so ? We are greatly indebted 
to you. 

(Exit officers.) 

Hawthorne. That's all right, your Majesty. We 
were very glad to do it — but I think your Majesty's 
life is still in danger. 

King. Eh? ^ 

De Witz. Sire! I (Together) 

Ivan. What ! J 

Hawthorne. And this was only the forerunner 
of a plot to dethrone your Majesty. 

Ivan. That is impossible. 

De Witz. (Dozvn l.) This is preposterous, 
Sire. 

King. One moment. (To Hawthorne) You 
are an American? 

Hawthorne. Yes, your Majesty. 

King. We do not understand the cause of your 
apparent interest in the affairs of Borrovina. 

Hawthorne. I can't stand by and see you — and 
others, tricked by a man you trust. 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 49 

King. {Looks to Ivan and De Witz) Do you 

refer to 

Hawthorne. I refer to Prince Vladimir. 

{All show relief.) 

De Witz. Sire, it is not possible- 



King. One moment. {To Hawthorne) Have 
you anything further to say? (Sits) 

Hawthorne. Yes, with your Majesty's permis- 
sion. (To Reporter who is on the balcony) Come 
here. (Reporter comes down l. De Witz goes 
to corner of c. table) This, your Majesty, is a 
reporter on the Borrovinian Scimitar. Some of my 
information comes from him. (To Reporter who 
is very much frightened) Now that's all right, old 
man — give me that paper — go on. Don't be nervous 
— give me that paper — do you hear? (Reporter 
fumbles in his pocket and hands paper to Haw- 
thorne) Is it not true that his Majesty's Palace 
is practically unprotected — and that nearly all the life 
guards have been sent to — (Refers to paper) 
Mavoritz ? 

Ivan, (r.) They were sent there to quell a 
mutiny in the troops. 

Hawthorne, (l. c. of King) Yes — a mutiny 
caused by a speech made to them by Prince Vladimir. 
Here's a copy of it. (Passes paper to De W^itz) 
Its publication was suppressed by the Prince. Last 
night the Prince attended a secret meeting of the 
leaders of the opposition. Their headquarters are in 
this hotel. This man tried to report it, but they 
wouldn't let him in. The Prince tried to forbid him 
from publishing that the meeting was held. (To 
Reporter) Is that true? 

Reporter. (Down l.) Quite true, your excel- 
lency. 

Hawthorne, That's all, and remember, not a 



50 HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

word of this to anybody and I'll see you don't lose 
by it. Now you may go. {He takes Reporter to 
door L. and closes it after Reporter exits) 

Ivan. (r. To Hawthorne) You will perhaps 
be convinced that you are entirely wrong as to 
Prince Vladimir's intentions when I tell you that 
his Majesty and Prince Vladimir have signed a 
treaty which 

Hawthorne. Oh, I know all about the treaty — 
and I tell you it was a trick 

De Witz. a trick? 

Hawthorne. To get himself into the capital 
where he could carry on his campaign to dethrone 
your Majesty. That treaty was the craziest thing 
I ever heard of — to force such a girl as her Royal 
Highness to marry that joke Prince. Why, how in 
God's name your Majesty could have allowed it — 

(King rises and De Witz and Ivan take a step for- 
ward threateningly.) 

King. We have heard enough, sir. We hope 
your intentions were good in taking this surprising 
interest in our affairs, but you have said a great deal 
which is impertinent — and you will withdraw. 
(King goes r. c. and up-stage a little) 

Hawthorne. (Follows him a step) But, I'm 



sure- 



KiNG. Go ! 
(Hawthorne ttcrns around and dashes out door l.) 

De Witz. I will order his arrest. {Crosses "l. c.) 

King. No, let him go. A plot — a revolution 

Ivan. Impossible, Sire. 
King. I wonder. 

(Prince enters l. followed by Adamovic. Prince 
goes to L. c, Adamovic to l. He salutes the 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 51 

King and closes doors and comes a step for- 
ward. ) 

Prince. I was informed that your Majesty de- 
sired my immediate presence here. 

King. {Comes to chair r. of table) Quite so. 

Prince. I have been waiting below for some 
time. 

King. {A step dozvn) Ah! you were prompt. 

Prince. (Steps forzvard) Pm not accustomed 
to be kept waiting. 

Ivan. Prince!!! ) .^ . . 

De Witz. Prince!!! i^ (Together) 

Adamovic. Your Highness! (Prince sits l. 
Adamovic goes to King) May I convey to your 
Majesty my congratulations on your fortunate 
escape from — 

(King waves his hand for Adamovic to r. of him. 
He does and remains l. of King.) 

King. (Crosses to c.) Thank you — you — (Sees 
Prince sitting) Pray be seated. Prince. 

(Adamovic shows alarm and quickly crosses above 
table to R. of Prince.) 

Prince. (Gives grunt and crosses his legs) 
Well, your Majesty sent for me, and I am here. 

King. Obviously! 

Prince. Am I to know why I am summoned? 

King. You have no idea? 

Prince. (Looks at King) How should I have? 

King. Has your Highness happened to hear 
that an attempt was made recently upon our life ? 

Prince. Yes — of course I heard it. 

King. It may interest you to know that the at- 
tempt was unsuccessful. (Fringe turns front) Do 



52 HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

you think it would have disturbed the peace of your 
skuiibers had the assailant accomplished his pur- 
pose? 

(Prince springs to his feet.) 

Prince. What is your Majesty trying to infer? 

King. Prince, we cannot exactly attribute this 
recent incident to popularity, so consequently it is 
not altogether unnatural for us to seek the cause 
for the very obvious unpopularity — and we grieve 
to say that we can only trace the cause to your 
Highness. 

Prince. Does your Majesty presume to accuse 
me of being a party to this affair? 

King. We think your defiance of our authority 
has turned the people against us. 

Prince. (Angrily) What have I done? 

King. (Calmly) Contrary to our orders, you 
have just held a review of the capital garrison. 

Prince. Real soldiers must be worked. (Sits 
L.) You can't shut them up in a box like toys when 
you're tired of them. 

King. Our orders were no review. (Crosses 
toward Prince) 

Prince. But your Majesty is ignorant of such 
matters. I was brought up to soldiering. 

King. You have yet to learn the first rule of it — 
Obedience. (Adamovic places his hand on Prince's 
shoulder as he is about to spring at the King) Also, 
without my consent, you have made speeches to the 
troops. (To De Witz) 

Prince. Well 

King. (Turning to De Witz who is u. l. of 
table) Excellency — what did his Highness say? 

(Adamovic and the Prince confer.) 

De Witz. (During reading King crosses R. 
stolidly listening. Reading from the paper the re- 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 53 

porter handed Hawthorne) That the government 
owed the troops many months' pay — he must say 
he felt for them. It was a scandal that could not 
continue — a change must come — he would say it 
might come sooner than any one of them imagined. 

King. What meaning did your Highness intend 
to convey? What did you mean by a change might 
come soon? 

Prince. Nothing. I couldn't give them money, 
so I gave them encouragement. 

King. Incitement ! 

Prince. {Rising) What! 

(Adamovic tries to stop him.) 

King. You are forbidden to hold reviews — you 
are forbidden to make speeches 

Prince. (Rises and goes to King) Your 
Majesty's language is- 



Adamovic. Your Highness, I beg 

Prince. Hold your tongue, Adamovic. I deny 
your Majesty's right to give me orders. According 
to the treaty the claims of both houses to the throne 
of Borrovina are equal and valid. 

Ivan. His Majesty is the lawful sovereign of 
Borrovina and your Highness, as heir to the throne, 
the first subject. 

Prince. Subject? Good God! Fm a slave. 

King. And yet you treat us as though you im- 
agined you were King. 

Prince. I say the treaty has been violated. 

King. Yes, by you, Prince. And there must be 
an end of it — an end of it 

Adamovic. Prince ! 

(Together) 

Prince. (In a rage) And there shall be an end 
of it— I 



Ivan. Your Highness! 



54 HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

Prince. (Stops and slowly bows) Your 
Majesty shall be obeyed. (He exits l. and 
Adamovic bozvs himself off after him) 

(De Witz goes to door l. Turns and watches 
King.) 

De Witz. Sire ! 

Ivan. Your Majesty! 

King. (Goes up l.) A rather unfortunate 
birthday. Still the weather holds wonderful. 

De Witz. Wonderful, your Majesty. 

Ivan. Wonderful ! 

King. Yes, one can never be quite miserable 
when it's not raining. 

(Officer enters l.) 

Officer. Your Majesty, the streets are quite 
safe now. The Royal carriage is waiting. 

King. Yes. Her Royal Highness is with the 
American woman. Attend her to the carriage. 

(King exits followed by two guards. Ivan and 
De Witz and the other four guards follow. 
Officer goes upstairs r. as Hawthorne 
enters up r. followed by Frederick. Haw- 
thorne goes upstairs a fetv steps.) 

Frederick. I have found Mr. Blake, excellency. 

Hawthorne. (Comes to Frederick and shuts 
the door after him) All right. Tell him to stay in 
the coffee-room and not come out till I call him. 
(Frederick exits r. Hawthorne is about to go up 
the stairs as the officer comes dozvn and stands in his 
way at the foot of stairs) Hello ! Are you waiting 
for the Princess? 

Officer. I am. 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 55 

Hawthorne. Well, I want to see her a moment 
— wait out there {Pointing l.) will you.'' 

Officer. You wish to see her Royal Highness 
alone ? 

Hawthorne. Yes, that's the idea. 

Officer. Such a thing is absolutely impossible, 
Monsieur. 

Hawthorne. No, it isn't. It is the simplest thing 
in the world — all you have to do is to go right out- 
side those doors — (Pointing l.) 

Officer. To allow you a private interview with 
the Princess — Ridiculous ! It would be as much as 
my commission is worth. 

Hawthorne. How much is that? 

Officer. I fail to understand you. 

Hawthorne. I asked you how much your job 
was worth — how much do you get? Or how much 
would you get if you got it? 

Officer. It is no secret. The salary attached to 
my post amounts to three hundred francs a month. 

Hawthorne. Is that all you get? (Takes bank- 
notes from his pocket) Well, here's a month's pay 
in regular money. Attach that to your post and if 
you lose your job I'll get you a better one for the 
rest of your life. Hurry up and wait over there, 
will you? 

Officer. (Takes money and exits l.) Your 
excellency shall be obeyed. (He exits l.) 

(Princess enters at the top of the stairs, followed 
by Kate. As she comes down Hawthorne 
calls to her. Hawthorne motions to Kate to 
go back — she exits upstairs.) 

Hawthorne. (Coming down r.) Your Royal 
Highness. I must see you a moment — your mar- 



(Princess crossing to c, looks about. Prince 
enters l.) 



56 HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

Prince. His Majesty is waiting for you, Irma. 
(Comes dozvn l.) Permit me to escort you to the 
carriage. {He holds out his hand and she shrinks 
away a little. The Prince and Hawthorne look 
■into each other's eyes. The Princess and Prince 
exit L.) 

Hawthorne. {Goes to door r.) Rod! Rod! 
{He goes to door l. and closes them as Blake 
enters r.) 

Blake. {Coming down r.) What the devil is 
going on here? Why did you have me shut up in 
the coffee-room? {Goes up and looks out of bal- 
cony) 

Hawthorne. There's the devil to pay around 
here, Rod. Pve got to do some detective work and 
I want you to help me. 

Blake. {Dozvn r.) Great Scott, old boy, you're 
all excited. Try to calm down and let me know the 
worst. 

Hawthorne. {Coming to Blake r.) Rod, as 
sure as Pve alive there's a plot on to dethrone King 
Augustus. 

Blake. Dethrone him! 

Hawthorne. Sh ! 

Blake. And do you think there's any chance of 
it's going through? 

Hawthorne. Pm afraid it's a cinch! 

Blake. {Dozvn r.) Shake! {Holds out his 
hand) 

Hawthorne, (l. of Blake) What do you 
mean? 

Blake. {This is all spoken very quickly and ex- 
citedly) I mean the same thing you mean — if they 
dethrone the King the Princess goes with him — 
that drops the bars for you. What can we do to 
help it along? 

Hawthorne. No — we've got to work with all 
our might to prevent it. 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 57 

Blake. What's the idea? 

Hawthorne. She beHeves Ipx these people so — 
if her father were dethroned it would kill her. 

Blake. You've certainly got it bad. 

Hawthorne. Bad? Rod, I'm gone. She's 
everything — nothing else matters and it's all hope- 
less, utterly hopeless. I'm crazy and I know it, but 
she shan't marry the Prince, do you hear? 

Blake. Well, who said she would? What are 
you going to do? 

Hawthorne. Get proof of this revolution — 
positive proof. 

Blake. Anything I can do? 

Hawthorne. Yes — take this suit-case — and lock 
it up in your room. 

Blake. Why — what's in it? 

Hawthorne. The bank roll. (Goes up l. c. and 
returns dozvn r.) 

Blake. The bank roll ? Say, Tony, you're crazy. 
Leaving that bag hanging around here with a 
fortune in it. 

Hawthorne. {Going up to balcony and shout- 
ing hack to Blake) I didn't mean to leave it here. 
I didn't know they were going to shoot at the King, 
did I? 

{Enter Frederick and boy. Frederick comes down 
R., and boy crosses up to sofa up l.) 

Frederick. {To Blake who has suit-case tinder 
his arm) One moment. Monsieur, I will call the 
porter. 

Blake. No, you won't. I'll do it myself. I want 
the exercise. {He runs upstairs with suit-case. 
Frederick motions to boy to take hold of l. end of 
sofa zvhich they move up l.) 

Hawtpiorne. {Coming down r. as Blake goes 
up) Say, Rod, you fix it with the Senator. Tell 
Kate I haven't time for lunch. 



58 HAVvTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

(Frederick crifs n. as Adamovic enters l. ivith 
guard.) 

Guard. But this is a public room. 

Adamovic. That is why we — (Sees Hawthorne 
down R., pauses for a second, then crosses to 
balcony) The view of the fort from the balcony is 
very fine, monsieur. (Adamovic follozvs him, 
Blake from steps of balcony zvatches Hawthorne 
off then Adamovic quickly goes to l. d., looks off- — 
calls M. Frederick, who has come dozvn to desk — 
meets him c. — looks l. and r.) 

(Hawthorne exits.) 

Adamovic. Frederick, prepare our meeting room. 
Frederick. Meeting room? — in five minutes. 
(Exit upstairs r.) 

(Enter Prince l. and savagely crosses to r. a7td 
back to L. c. L.) 

Adamovic. (r. c.) Good! Your Highness 
should calm yourself. (Soldier is up r. c.) 

Prince, (l. c.) How can I be calm? You 
heard how I was insulted — given orders by an 
Oberitch — an Oberitch. 

x\damovic. (r. c.) It all happened for the 
best — now you can claim that the treaty has been 
broken. 

Prince. Yes, and some heads may be broken 
before Pm finished. I am forbidden to make 
speeches, am I ? We shall see. 

(Soldier goes dozvn to l. of c. table. Enter General 
HoHENLOE and tzvo officers l.) 

Hohenloe. (l. c. Excitedly) Highness — 
(Prince l.) I have just received this from his 
Majesty. (Hands Prince the message) 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 59 

Prince. He commands that the life guards be 
recalled to the capital at once — he suspects trouble — 
someone has been talking. (Sits) That accounts 
for his commands to me. There must be one among 
us who 

HoHENLOE. No, Highness, Fm sure of every 
man. (Goes up behind table c.) 

Adamovic. (Enter Steinmetz and two other 
men) It is more likely that this afternoon's affair 
has frightened his Majesty. 

Prince. Whatever it is, it means we must take 
action immediately. 

(Enter Frederick from stairs and Steinmetz and 
three citizens l.) 

Frederick. (To Adamovic) The meeting room 
is prepared, excellency, (r. of Adamovic) 

Adamovic. Thank you — that is all. (Frederick 
exits R., upstairs. The other men and officers are 
gathered about the table and elserchere in the room) 
This way, gentlemen 

(Men start toward him.) 

Hohenloe. Wait! Since receiving that order, 
I think it would be wiser if we postponed this meet- 
ing until later. (Steinmetz sits. Hohenloe up c.) 
Let me say this, though. We are to attack the 
palace at twelve o'clock to-night. His Royal High- 
ness, Prince Vladimir, becomes King of Borrovinia. 
You are to see your party leaders, M. Steinmetz, and 
have them ready to co-operate with the army which 
is with us to a man. In effecting an entrance to the 
palace we shall demand the immediate abdication 
of the King 

Adamovic (Pointing to door r.) Sh! Yes, 
General, you are quite right. No one can have the 



6o HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

slightest doubt — {He suddenly opens the door and 
Hawthorne slozvly enters as all spring to their feet 
azve-stricken) 

Hawthorne. {To Adamovic) Thank you. 
{Crosses l. to c. General drops down r.) 

HoHENLOE. What is the meaning of this? 

Hawthorne. {At l. turns and looks at Gen- 
eral) Are you speaking to me? 

{As General is about to speak.) 

Prince. One moment. — I thank you gentlemen 
for your compliments to our troops, and I assure 
you that they will always be ready to protect the in- 
terests of Borrovina's citizens. I bid you good- 
afternoon. General, you may dismiss your officers. 

{Officers salute, citizens bozv and exit l. Adamovic 
follozvs to door l.) 

Prince, (l. c. — to Hawthorne) And now 
we shall attend to your case, sir. 

Hawthorne, (c, smoking a cigarette) That's 
very kind of you. 

Prince, (l. c.) Were you listening to what was 
said in this room just now ? 

Hawthorne, (c.) Why, were you saying some- 
thing you were ashamed to have heard ? 

Prince. That's enough of your damned im- 
pertinence. 

Hawthorne. Well, you'll get a lot more of it 
if you keep on like that. 

Prince. Adamovic. 

Adamovic. Highness. 

Prince. Summon the guard — be quick. 

(Adamovic salutes at l. and exits l. shutting doors.) 

Hawthorne. Three to one isn't enough for you, 
eh? 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 6i 

Prince. Do you know to whom you are speak- 
ing? 

Hawthorne, (c.) Well, I feel sure I am in 
bad company, so I'll go. (Starts l., but Prince 
blocks his way with a chair. General is r. c. and 
the Prince between Hawthorne and the door l.) 

Prince, (l. c.) Oh — you'll not leave just yet. 
You shall be given time to think over your insults 
to me in jail. 

Hawthorne, (c.) Say — I'm not any too fond 
of you — and you'll make me lose my temper in a 
minute. {Comes c.) 

Prince, (l. c.) A lot of good that will do you — 
but you shall suffer for your insolence just the same. 

Hawthorne. You'll suffer for yours first. 

Prince. {Kicking chair out of the zvay) Damn 
you ! Before I have you locked up I'll say this for 
you. I suspected when I first saw you skulking in 
the palace gardens why you were there, but I wasn't 
sure. When I saw you here with someone — a few 
moments ago I was convinced. 

Hawthorne. I wouldn't say anything more about 
that if I were you. 

Prince. So — I was right. You had an appoint- 
ment with 

Hawthorne. You lie — and you know it ! 

Prince. Another insult that you shall pay for. 
You are a witness to what he said, General. (Gen- 
eral zvho is still dozm r., salutes) I have a pretty 
story for the King — I'm sure he'll be pleased when 
he learns that you have been carrying on a 
clandestine affair with 

(Hawthorne hits Prince, knocks down General 
R., then chair business. He drops below the 
fable after hitting the Prince with his right 
hand. The Prince is knocked l. by the blow, 
draws his sivord and makes a lunge at Haw- 



62 HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

THORNE across the table. Hawthorne szvings 
a chair in time to catch the sword, and both 
chair and szvord are knocked up-stage. Haw- 
thorne leaps to table and then from the table 
to the Prince, zvho falls to the floor under 
Hawthorne's weight. As General is about 
to draw szvord, Blake enters r. and pulls sword 
from General's hand.) 

Blake. Go it, Tony. I've got this one. 

Curtain 

{Second curtain: Four life guards enter and rush 
toward Hawthorne and Blake — they quickly 
run for balcony and jump over, and life guards 
trying to follow fall all over themselves.) 



ACT HI 



Scene : The King's Cabinet. A room furnished in 
Empire style, appointments old and faded. 
French windows r. zvith portiere curtain. Up 
R. c, double doors opening from a long corridor. 
L. c. is fireplace, raised about a foot above the 
stage, r. 2 double doors leading to audience 
chamber. 

L. c. is a large, flat-top desk parallel with the 
set. Reading lamp and a lot of papers of 
various kinds and sizes on the desk. Electric 
sconces about the room and in center is chan- 
delier. Bookcase and cabinets, etc. 

Time: Evening on same day as Act H. 

At rise : De Witz is pacing the floor. Ivan enters 

L. 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 63 

Ivan. Any news of Hohenloe? 

De Witz. Not a word. (Officer of the 
Guards enters up r. c.) Well? 

Officer of the Guards. Two foreigners are at 
the gates, Excellency. They claim acquaintance with 
her Royal Highness and ask to convey to her an 
urgent message. 

De Witz. Impossible! 

{Door L. opens and King enters. They bozv.) 

Officer. They were told it was impossible, Ex- 
cellency, but they were most persistent. (Sees 
King) 

King. (At door) I have been waiting news of 
the results of your investigations. 

Ivan. (r. c. Steps toward King and glances at 
De Witz) As yet, Sire, we have nothing to report. 

King. Nothing? 

De Witz. (u. c.) Nothing, Sire. 

King. (Crossing l. c.) Where is General 
Hohenloe ? 

De Witz. (Crossing dozun l.) He — he has not 
arrived, your Majesty. 

King. (l. c. near chair r. of table) He was 
summoned ? 

De Witz. (l.) Yes, Sire. He should have been 
here at ten o'clock. 

King. What explanation has he sent? 

De Witz. None, Sire. 

King. (Sits in chair r. of table) So — the com- 
mander of our troops has ignored our command. 

De Witz. (Down l.) It appears so, Sire. 

King. And the guards have not been recalled 
from Mavoritz? 

De Witz. We fear not. 

King. Then the warning of the young American 
this afternoon was well founded. Vladimir planning 



64 HAWTHORNE OF THE U S. A. 

a revolution, with General Hohenloe and the Army 
behind him ! 

(De Witz shuts doors.) 

Ivan. {Crossing to King) It seems almost un- 
thinkable, Sire. 

King. (Rises, goes to c.) What else can explain 
his defiance of our commands? Hohenloe a traitor 
— dear, dear, dear, dear — and we parted quite 
friends this afternoon. 

(Ivan goes above table.) 

De Witz. (Dozunh.) We must find some means 
to discover their plans — we must 

(Princess enters r. c. and goes to King.) 

King. Yes — Ah, Irma, my dear, it is very late. 
I thought you had retired. 

Princess. I have been too restless, your Majesty. 
All the evening I have had a strange foreboding — 
I have felt your Majesty was in danger. 

King. There, there, there, child. You mustn't 
allow your imagination to play you such tricks. 

Princess, (r. c.) Then why are Count Ivan 
and M. De Witz still here ? Why are you all in the 
cabinet at such an hour? 

King. (l. c.) Affairs of State, my dear — afifairs 
of State. It's very late — I will send for Miss 
Smythe. 

Princess. Oh, no, she has been with me — she 
has been frightened, too. There has been mysterious 
people knocking at the gates. 

King. (Frightened) People at the gates — at 
midnight ? 

De Witz. (Down l.) Probably the American 
girl who was with her Royal Highness this after- 
noon and her father. 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 65 

King. What did they want? 

De Witz. (Dozvn l.) To convey a message to 
Her Royal Highness. (To Officer of the Guard) 
Was not that what you said? 

Officer. (Comes dozvn r. c.) Yes, Excellency. 
They are still waiting. 

Princess. Miss Ballard here, with a message for 
me? 

Officer. Yes, your Royal Highness. 

Princess, (r. c.) I beg that you let me see her, 
your Majesty. Something dreadful must have hap- 
pened — she wouldn't come here otherwise at such an 
hour. 

Ivan. (l. c.) She may bring information from 
the young man who talked with your Majesty this 
afternoon. 

King. We will receive her — let her come in here. 

(Officer of the Guards hows mid exits r. c.) 

De Witz. A secret agent. Sire, is in the audience 
chamber. With your permission I will see him at 
once. (The King nods, crosses l. c. De Witz 
exits L.) 

(Ivan goes to windozus at r. Officer of the 
Guards enters r. c.) 

Officer. Miss Ballard ! 

(Kate enters r. c. and bozvs to the King. Officer 
exits r. c.) 

Kate, (c.) Your Majesty. (To Princess) 
It is so good of you to see me, your Royal Highness. 
I can never thank you enough. 

Princess, (r. c.) I am very glad to receive 
you, Miss Ballard. 

King. (l. c.) We understand there is an im- 



66 HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

portant matter about which you wish to consult her 
Royal Highness. 

Kate, (c.) Our two friends, the young men you 
saw to-day, have been arrested, your Royal High- 
ness. 

Princess. Arrested ? 

Kate. Yes, they are in jail at this moment. 

Princess. Your Majesty 

King. What was the cause of their arrest? 

Kate. From what I learn, Pm afraid it was 
Tony's fault — Mr. Hawthorne, I mean, 

(Ivan shozvs interest at hearing Hawthorne's 
name.) 

Princess. Mr. Hawthorne? 

King. What has he done? 

Kate. (c.) He had some trouble with the 
Prince — and there was a fight. 

Princess. (r. c. Indignant) Did Prince 
Vladimir strike Mr. Hawthorne? 

Kate. Pm afraid it was Tony who struck the 
Prince. 

King. (l. c.) Ah, really? 

Kate. It was reported that Mr. Hawthorne 
knocked him down. 

King. (l. c.) Splendid! My dear Miss Bal- 
lard, we fear this is a very serious matter. 

(Princess works c. above Kate.) 

Kate. I know it is, your Majesty. I know it is 
very serious. My father tried for ever so long at 
the jail to get them out, but he couldn't do a thing. 
In America my father can get anybody out of jail. 
We did everything we could think of before coming 
to your Royal Highness. 

Princess, (c.) Do not let it alarm you, Miss 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 6y 

Ballard. I am sure his Majesty will be pleased to 
help you, after your kindness to me to-day. 

King. Fortunately M. De Witz, the Minister of 
Police is in the palace now. If you can make it con- 
venient to wait till he's free, he will let you know 
what is best to be done. 

Kate. I am very grateful, your Majesty. 

Princess. May Miss Ballard wait with me until 
M. De Witz is disengaged? 

King. We shall be very glad to have her. 

Princess. Come. {She goes out r. c. Kate 
curtsies and exits after her) 

(King sits.) 

Ivan. {Coming c.) Your Majesty, did you un- 
derstand that this man wdio had the encounter with 
Prince Vladimir is named Hawthorne? 

King. {Seated at r. of the table) That is what 
the young woman said — why? 

Ivan, (c.) It is then very likely that it was 
Anthony Hamilton Hawthorne who was so out- 
spoken this afternoon. 

King. Yes, very likely. 

Ivan. It is rather unfortunate that we did not 
know who he was at the time. 

King. Why — who is he? 

Ivan. An American capitalist — a man of vast 
wealth and great power in the United States. There 
was a long account of him in this evening's news- 
paper. 

King. (r. c.) Is that so? That explains his 
manner this afternoon — at the time we attributed it 
to audacity. {Rises, crosses R.) De Witz must be 
sent to him at once. 

(De Witz enters excitedly and goes to King.) 

De Witz. {At door) Your Majesty! {Shuts 



68 HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

doors, then crosses to King r. c.) My agent's re- 
port is most alarming. It leaves no doubt of the 
existence of a widespread conspiracy in the capital. 

King. The Life Guards must be recalled at 
once — hurry a messenger to Mavoritz. 

De Witz. Alas, Sire, there is no time. The con- 
spirators plan to attack the palace to-night. 

Ivan. {Horrified, r. c.) To-night! 

King. (Goes to window) They will strike while 
we are unprotected. 

Ivan. (Goes to doors r. c. De Witz crosses l. 
of door) We have one company still in the palace — 
I will post them at the gates. (E.i-its R. c.) 

King. {At zvindow) Impossible ! The streets 
are quite deserted. Cannot something be done to — 

De Witz. (c. l. of door near bell-cord) Your 
Majesty's safety is the first consideration — it is best 
that you escape from the palace at once. {Rings 
bell-cord up c.) 

King. And the Princess? 

De Witz. Her Royal Highness will accompany 
you — your greatest chance for safety lies in flight. 
{Crossing to chair r. of table. Officer of the 
Guard enters) Convey a message to Miss Smythe. 
Say that his Majesty has suddenly been called away 
and her Royal Highness will accompany him. Tell 
her to prepare for this at once. (Officer exits 
r. c. De Witz goes to King) Your Majesty can 
leave by the gardens— my agent will escort you 
secretly out of the Capital — if you can only cross 
the frontier — {Crosses to window) 

King. Flee from my country — an exile — and de- 
throned ! 

De Witz. Little knots of people are collecting in 
the square. (King crosses to zvindow r.) I beg 
your Majesty to prepare to go at once. {Crosses 
u. L.) 

King. {At zvindow) At once, M. De Witz. 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 69 
(Ivan enters r. c.) 

Ivan. (Stands in door) The Guards have been 
placed at the gates. 

De Witz. Will you make arrangements for his 
Majesty's immediate departure? 

Ivan. Is that our only course? 

De Witz. Is it our last resort. 

(Ivan exits r. c.) 

King. (At window) The square is filling with 
people as if by magic. Crowds are swarming in 
from all directions — I fear it is too late to attempt 
an escape. 

De Witz. No, no, Sire (King tttrns to him) 
but there is no time to lose. (Crosses to door l.) 
I would suggest that your Majesty change your 
attire — (Opens door l.) 

(Enter Officer of the Guards r. c.) 

Officer. Miss Ballard, to see M. De Witz. 

King. (Crosses to r. c.) De Witz, two American 
friends of Miss Ballard had an altercation with 
Prince Vladimir this afternoon and are now in jail. 
One of them is named Hawthorne. 

De Witz. Anthony Hamilton Hawthorne? 

(Kate enters r. c. as Officer exits.) 

King. Yes. A person of great importance in his 
own country. We had promised Miss Ballard that 
you would use your good officers to set them free 
at once. 

(Kate r. c.) 

De Witz. (l. c. above table) Yes — yes. (Goes 
to doors L. and opens them) If I might urge that 
your Majesty make immediate preparations while I 
discuss this matter with Miss Ballard. 



70 HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

King. Good-night, Miss Ballard. I hope M. De 
Witz can show you a way out of your difficulty. 
(Exits L. De Witz stands above doors — then closes 
them) 

De Witz. (Goes up above table) In the morn- 
ing, Miss Ballard, I will endeavor to do all I can 
to 

Kate. (Crosses to hint) In the morning! Oh, 
monsieur, can nothing be done to-night ? 

De Witz. I am sorry, but circumstances of which 
I have just become aware make it impossible for 
them to be released to-night. 

(Hawthorne enters. Ivan enters l.) 

Kate. Tony, it's you ! 

Hawthorne. Splendid guess. Ordinarily I 
shouldn't have employed this method of calling at 
the Palace, but it was the only way I could get in. 

Ivan. We understand, Excellency. 

De Witz. You are most welcome, Excellency. 

Hawthorne. They've been reading to-night's 
papers. 

Kate. Where's Rod ? 

Hawthorne. I ran. He's on his way to the 
Hotel. 

Kate, (c.) Father and I came here to see if 
anything could be done to help you. 

Hawthorne, (r. c.) That was fine of you — we 
got out all right. 

De Witz. (l. c.) How you managed to escape 
is 

Hawthorne. No trouble to break out of that jail 
if you have the proper implements. 

De Witz. What implements. Excellency? 

Hawthorne. (Jingling sofue gold pieces in his 
hands) These. (De Witz goes to window) First 
they found out who I was and then it was easy. 
Is the Senator still here? 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 71 

Kate. Yes, he's waiting for me. 

Hav/thoRNE. Good ! I want you to do some- 
thing for me quick — it's awfully important, will you? 

Kate. Why, of course. 

Hawthorne. Thanks — (Crosses to Ivan. De 
WiTZ goes to windozv) Can you arrange to have 
Mr. Blake admitted to the palace? 

Ivan. (l. c.) Certainly, Excellency. 

Hawthore. Then if you'll have Miss Ballard 
and her father escorted to the Casino at once — {To 
Kate. Ivan goes to door r. c.) And you tell Rod 
to hurry over here. He understands about it but 
tell him to be quick 

Kate. You're not getting Rod into trouble? 

Hawthorne. Not a chance. {Leads her to door 
R. c. Iw AN is at R. of door. To Ivan) Will you go 
with her please? 

(Ivan exits r. c.) 

De Witz. You have ventured here to warn us of 
an attack. 

Hawthorne. {Looks at his watch) Yes, in 
about ten minutes unless they have changed their 
plans. 

De Witz. So soon? {Crosses to door l.) 

Hawthorne. {At window) Twelve o'clock is 
what they said. Where's the King? 

De Witz. {Turning suddenly) His Majesty is 
dressing. 

Hawthorne. I want to see him right away. 

De Witz. But, Excellence 

Hawthorne. Tell the King I'm here, will you? 
(De Witz exits l. Hawthorne looks about the 
room as he is alone and sees that the zvindozvs are 
closed and the curtains drawn, and that his revolver 
is loaded. He is r. of table. Princess enters r. c.) 

Princess. Mr. Hawthorne — {He turns to her) 
They said you were 



^2. HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

Hawthorne. In jail? I was — but I escaped. 

Princess. Escaped? How? 

Hawthorne. An American method of persua- 
sion. 

Princess. You are waiting for someone? 

Hawthorne. Yes, your father. 

Princess. I fear that it will be impossible for him 
to receive you — His Majesty has suddenly been 
called away and I am going with him. 

Hawthorne. His Majesty and you are going 
away to-night? 

Princess. Yes — we are leaving immediately. 

Hawthorne. Oh, no, that would be a fatal mis- 
take 

Princess. (Frightened) What do you mean? 

Hawthorne. Don't be frightened by what I 
said — I only meant that I think that his Majesty 
has been badly advised. 

Princess. How is it that you seem to know so 
much about the affairs of our country? 

Hawthorne. Pve taken a deep interest in them. 

Princess. You are here on business of some 
kind? 

Hawthorne. Yes — on business — of some kind. 

(De Witz enters l.) 

De W^itz. Plis Majesty, Excellency. (King 
enters l. and comes down l. to Hawthorne. De 
Witz shuts doors after King. De Witz goes r. c.) 

Hawthorne. There is something of importance 
I should like to see you about, your Majesty. 

King. (Crosses c.) Unfortunately I am in great 
haste, Mr. Hawthorne 

Hawthorne, (l. c.) Too great, I think, your 
Majesty — but what I have to say won't take long. 

King. (Crosses u. c.) Irma, my dear, I will 
send for you when we are ready to go. 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 73 
(De Witz opens doors r. c. for her to go out.) 

Princess. I shall be waiting. (Exits r. c. De 
Witz closing doors after her) 

Hawthorne, (l. c.) Is it true that your Majesty 
means to run away? 

DeWitz. (r.) What! 

King. It is better to run away than to be sent 
away — when you're not quite sure where they'll send 
you. 

Hawthonre. Believe me, it's better and safer to 
stay and face it. 

De Witz. But we've not the smallest chance with 
them — there are hundreds to one against us. His 
Majesty's only chance is to escape. 

(King crosses l.) 

Hawthorne. There is one thing your Majesty 
can't run away from. (This stops King at r. corner 
of table) History! 

King. (Turns to him) Mr. Hawthorne, you are 
the best of our advisers. M. De Witz, we have 
changed our plans — we shall stay. 

(The din of a crowd is heard in the square off R. 
Very ominous and threatening. A man makes 
an ad lib. speecJi to thcui. Voices.) 

De Witz. (At window) The square is black 
with people — someone is addressing them. 

Hawthorne, (c.) A mob must be told what to 
think. 

King. A mob ! I fear the mob above all else. 

Hawthorne, (c.) The mob is nothing. The 
thing to fear is the mind that thinks for them. Once 
let me get the better of that and there's an end of 
your revolution. 

King. (Seated) You have great confidence, Mr. 
Hawthorne. 



74 HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

Hawthorne. Of course. We've got a great 
chance to lick them. All this revolution is politics — 
very much like politics at home — and politics is the 
one thing I know something about. 

(Voices off-stage shout and stop.) 

King. H that crowd takes the law into its own 
hands nothing can stop it. 

Hawthorne. That's right, your Majesty — but it 
won't. (Clock strikes tzvelve) Twelve o'clock — 
it's time for our guests. 

De Witz. (r. c.) The troops are coming, Sire. 

King. The chance of escape unnerves me. 

(Ivan starts r. c. frightened.) 

Hawthorne. Any news of Blake? 
Ivan. None, Excellency. He will be admitted 
the moment he arrives. 

Hawthorne. He ought to be here -by this time. 

(Officer zvho has been heard rnmiing in the cor- 
ridor enters r. c.) 

Officer. Your Majesty — they are knocking at 
the gate. A great crowd of them — The Minister of 
War demands an entrance in the name of the nation. 

(Ivan rushes off r. c.) 

Hawthorne. Then let the nation in. 
King. (r. c.) No — no! 
Hawthorne, (c.) Your Majesty- 



King. (l. c.) No, no, hold the gates 

(Officer turns to go.) 

Hawthorne. Wait — you there — you let them in 
— all of them that want to come in. (To the King) 
Your Majesty, it is your only chance. 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 75 

King. I am the King — I command you to hold 
the gates ! 

(Officer rushes off r. c. and calls dozvn the cor- 
ridor as he runs: "Hold the gates/*) 

Hawthorne. Your Majesty, you are writing 
your own death warrant. Why can't you leave this 
thing to me? 

King. There is nothing you can do. Let them 
in and we shall all be butchered like dogs. 

Hawthorne. No, your Majesty — I beg of you — 

King. How should you know what it means 
when the blood of Borrovina is up? 

Hawthorne. The blood of Borrovina is the same 
as in any other place. The nation is knocking at 
your gates and the King won't let them in. 

(Officer again rushes in.) 

Officer. Sire, they threaten to storm the palace 
if we don't open. 

King. Hold the gates — hold them as long as you 
can — warn the Princess — we must fly — (Dashes for 
door L. Hawthorne intercepts him. Officer 
rushes off r. c.) 

(De Witz exits r. c.) 

Hawthorne. (Stands in door to stop King) 
The biggest cowards will shoot a man who is run- 
ning away. 

King. Let me out — let me out! (Terrific ex- 
plosion is heard and a noise of gates falling. The 
King totters against the desk) 

Hawthorne. That must have spoiled your gates. 

(Voices approach in the corridor.) 
King. Mr. Hawthorne, again you are right. We 



^^ HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

thank you for preventing our escape. We shall 
endeavor to die a King. 

Hawthorne. Now you're talking — but you're a 
long way from dead yet. (Indicates door l.) Now 
go in there quick, both of you. Til stop them here 
and then you come out — that'll show them you're 
not afraid of them. HI get a chance to talk, you 
back up anything I say. 

(King mid De Witz exit l. Ivan rushes in r. c. 
Voices louder.) 

Ivan. They are coming this way — thousauds of 

them. Where's his 

Hawthorne. In there — hurry. 

(Ivan rushes off l. The mob is heard yelling and 
advancing into the cabinet. Hawthorne 

'■ quickly sits at the desk as the crowd of soldiers, 
Officers, Adamovic, Steinmetz, Frederick 
and General Hohenloe rush on and line up 
in mob fashion on the r. and face Hawthorne 
who coolly surveys them. The doorway is 
filled with soldiers, with guns and bayonets at 
charge. ) 

Hawthorne. Hello ! What can I do for you ? . 
- {Mob cries '' Who's he," etc.) 

Hohenloe. What the devil are you doing here? 
{Mob: " who's that "? etc.) Wait ! ' We will attend 
to this man later. First, we want the King. 

{Mob cries " Yes we do" etc.) 

Hawthorne. (Rises) You wish an audience 
with his Majesty? All right, I'll fix it for you. 

Hohenloe. We have come for Augustus — our 
troops surround the palace — an attempt to escape, 
and justice will be swift. 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. ^7 

Hawthorne. Ha — ha ! There's where you have 
the pull on civilized countries where justice is pain- 
fully slow. 

{Mob cries ''Ah!'' etc., and takes a step toward 
him. The door opens l.) 

De Witz. (IVho opens door) His Majesty! 

{The King enters, pale and zveak and walks up l. 
above desk.) 

Hawthorne. Your Majesty, ^ a deputation — I 
believe. 

HoHENLOE. No — the judgment of the army and 
the people of Borrovina and their will. 

(Princess is heard out in corridor.) 

Princess. Let me in — let me in — (Pushes her 
zvay through soldiers and into the room; rushes 
to King's arms and szuings to his L.) Father! You 
are safe ! 

Hohenloe. The Princess must retire. 

Princess. No! 

Hawthorne. {Above desk — l. of Princess. 
To Princess) Your Royal Highness — don't be dis- 
turbed by this little demonstration — everything's 
going to be all right. 

King. Child — don't be frightened. H you wish 
to stay — come, sit here. (Leads her to chair in re- 
cess up L. and she sits. He returns to his place at 
the upper end of the desk) Now gentlemen, we are 
ready — what have you to say? 

Hohenloe. This. In the name of the army and 
the nation you have abused, King Augustus the 
Third, it is the will of the people of Borrovina that 
you be deposed from the throne where you have 
mis-governed so long. During your reign the 
finances of the State have dwindled away, the coun- 



78 HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

try has become bankrupt, a vast foreign loan has 
been incurred and for months the army has not been 
paid. All this has happened since you have en- 
cumbered the throne. Now the nation that called 
you to that throne has spoken — you are King no 
more. Here is the will of an outraged people — you 
must sign it here and now. {He lays parchment be- 
fore tke King who takes it up, looks at it, and then 
drops it on desk. Hawthorne catches the King's 
eye) Your answer! 

Hawthorne. (Grabs up parchment. Drops 
dozvn L. of desk) His Majesty has deputized me 
to give you his answer. 

HoHENLOE. You ! This man, gentlemen, whom 
his Majesty is pleased to make his spokesman, is the 
ruffian who this afternoon insulted Prince Vladimir, 
the future King of Borrovina. 

(Angry cries from Mob — ''Kill Him".' etc. Ivan 
enters l.) 

Ivan. (At door l.) Mr. Blake has arrived, Mr. 
Hawthorne. 

HoHENLOE. Hawthorne? 

King. My friend, Mr. Anthony Hamilton Haw- 
thorne — of America. 

(Great commotion in the mob — all recognising the 
name of Hawthorne and his millions and re- 
peat his name among them.) 

Hawthorne. Pleased to meet you all. (Looking 
at parchment) You have formally demanded his 
Majesty's abdication and he has left it to me to give 
an answer. We have talked this matter over very 
thoroughly, his Majesty and I, and we have con- 
cluded to sign this document and abandon the 
throne. 

Adamovic. a wise decision since he has no choice. 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 79 

Hawthorne. (Moves to r. lozver corner of 
desk) You are right — he has no choice — but before 
the year is out, you will find that you are making a 
great big mistake. 

HoHENLOE. What do you know of the conditions 
and needs of Borrovina? 

Hawthorne. (Goes in front of desk) Ah, 
what do I know of the conditions and needs of 
Borrovina? Ha, that's funny — what do I know of 
the — ? Do you know who I am? Do you know 
what my business is? Making money. Do you 
know why I left America and came over here to 
Borrovina? I've been keeping this under cover but 
I'll tell you now — simply because I knew that there 
were greater possibilities here than in my own land. 
You've got one cute little place here and you're 
making a fool of it with the light you're putting up, 
and I tell you boys, if you're going to carry this 
thing any further, I'm going to pack up my duds, 
leave you flat and go home. (He goes down l. a7id 
returns) You know I could make a lot of money 
for you fellows if you weren't so busy with this 
revolution. And I know that you're just as anxious 
to make money as the next fellow, aren't you? 
(Pause) Of course you are. The only reason you 
all haven't got it is because you don't know how to 
make it. (To General) General, how would you 
like to have your own home, gardens and automo- 
bile? W^ould be kinda bad, wouldn't it? (To Fred- 
erick) How would you like to see a new hotel 
here and a great big Casino, with people flocking 
in here from all over the country spending money 
all over the place, and all you'd have to do every 
night is to dress up in your evening clothes and 
watch them spend it ? That would be rotten, wouldn't 
it? (To the others) How would you like to see 
this town connected by railroads with Mavoritz, 
Arnbach and Rheinsic? (Goes up through crowd 



8o HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

and comes out about c.) And all of you have a nice 
lot of stock in 'em and nothing to do but cut coupons. 
That would be bad, wouldn't it? But you can't do 
it with a revolution. What's the good of a revolu- 
tion? Instead of taking your soldiers and having 
a great fight, getting a whole lot of them killed so 
they won't be any good to anybody — put them to 
work. What's the use of shooting a good cook, or 
a good chauffeur if you don't have to? You'll need 
them later on. To show that I mean all I have said, 
I intend — (Blake enters with suit-case) Gentle- 
men, Mr. Rodney Blake, my secretary, and I want 
to tell you he's one great little fellow ! Come on 
over here. Rod, I want you to meet the bunch. 
General Hohenloe, shake hands with Blake — Rod, 
meet the General. (Blake goes over to him) Go 
on, shake hands with him. {He puts the General's 
hands into Blake's. Taking Blake around to the 
others. To Steinmetz) And what's your name? 

Steinmetz. Steinmetz 

Hawthorne. Rod, shake hands with Steinmetz, 
too, you'll meet all these fellows soon. {They go 
about in the crozvd shaking hands, etc.) There are a 
thousand other fellows just like him over where I 
came from and I'm. going to bring them all over 
here so you can meet them. And he's a great little 
story-teller, too. Rod, tell that one about the cuckoo 
clock. 

Blake. {Starts) W^ell, — once upon a time 

Hawthorne. No — tell 'em that later. {Indicat- 
ing the suit-case) Open that bag. (Blake does so) 
I realize what's in your mind, gentlemen. How are 
we going to make money without capital to start 
with? I feel that I am so thoroughly in harmony 
with your best interests that I have anticipated your 
question and have brought here a very small sum 
with me — {He opens bag which Blake put on desk 
and opens one of the bags containing gold and pours 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 8i 

it out) Gold! Real gold! (He than takes tip 
a bundle of bankiiotes — they all crozud around and 
look at money, etc.) I understand the army is in 
arrears of pay and I have brought with me enough 
money to pay the back salary of every officer in this 
room. Work will immediately be begun on the de- 
velopment of your natural resources. General, how 
much back pay is due you? 

HoHENLOE. Seven thousand francs. 

Hawthorne. Is that correct? 

Ivan. Quite right. 

Hawthorne. All I have suggested to you, gentle- 
men, can be realized — Borrovina can be made a 
prosperous, thriving nation. There's one factor 
though that must be removed. Prince Vladimir — 
you've got to get him out of here, — and keep him 
out. 

Adamovic. It's an outrage — I tell you 

Hohenloe. {To Adamovic) Wait! 

Hawthore. Come on, gentlemen — you have come 
here for a settlement of your difficulties. I offer 
you a solution. What do you decide? Shall it be 
revolution or loyal pJlegiance to his Majesty? I 
must have your answer at once. {He looks at them 
for a moment and there is no answer) Good ! You 
have decided wisely. Gentlemen, the revolution is 
dead — " Long live the King ! " Hurray, hurray, hur- 
ray — {He punches Blake in the stomach) 

Blake. {Taken by surprise) Hurray! 

Hawthorne. General, it gives me great pleasure 
to hand you seven thousand francs. And if the 
officers will step this way, I'll pay the whole damn 
army. (Army rushes to him) Now — Long live 
the King ! 

(Everybody joins him.) 
Curtain 



Hy\WTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 



ACT IV 

Scene: Same as Act L A nczv drop zvith many 
houses, is seen ilhiminated in the night. Dec- 
orations of lanterns are scattered among the 
trees. A table zvith four chairs are placed r. c. 
Music is heard off l. tozvard palace. 

Time: A summer evening — One year after Act I. 

At rise: De Witz, Ivan, Adamovic, Reporter, 
M. Frederick and Steinmetz are discovered. 
Reporter is at l. dancing and singing. The 
others are seated about the table zvhistling to 
the music — strain of zvhat the orchestra is play- 
ing off-stage. The zjuaiter is standing at the 
hack ready to serve. 

Ivan. Tony's favorite song ! 

Reporter. Well, I guess this anniversary ball is 
a shine party, eh? 

De Witz. I've looked over every state function 
in this hamlet, man and boy for forty years and I've 
never seen anything to compare with this. 

Adamovic. Must have cost the Treasury a small 
fortune. 

Reporter. {Crossing r. c.) What if it did? 
This is an occasion to loosen up — the anniversary 
of the dawn of Borrovinian prosperity. 

Frederick. {Offers cigar to Ivan) Have a 
cigar? (Ivan hesitates) It's all right — it's a Haw- 
thorne. 

Ivan. {Taking one) Thanks! {To waiter) 
Slip us a match. 

Reporter. Pipe ! Present from Mr. Hawthorne. 
{Crosses to the group at table and they all look at it) 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 83 

Adamovic. If there ever was a decent fellow, he 
is. 

Frederick. He certainly is a wonderful boy. 

Adamovic. Our box factory and the bottling 
works are running night and day. 

De Witz. Which reminds me, are you lads going 
in on the expense in this new publicity campaign? 

Adamovic. Why should we? We've got more 
than we can handle. 

Ivan. But how did you get all this business — 
how? 

Adamovic. Because these waters have proved 
a wonderful remedy. 

Ivan. The waters are the same as they were 
years ago. But they never made any money for you 
until Mr. Hawthorne put the people wise to them. 

De Witz. The great foreign demand for these 
bottled waters has been created by the development 
of the springs — building the swell hotels and making 
this a resort that backs Carlsbad and Baden-Baden 
off the map. YouVe been getting all the benefit of 
our world-wide advertising and never coming across 
with a pinch of change. But now in this new pub- 
licity campaign you've got to make a noise like 
regular money. 

Adamovic. (Rising) Well, get this — we refuse, 
do you hear, we refuse ! We have decided to do no 
advertising whatever. 

De Witz. You mean it? 

Adamovic. Surest thing you know — that goes as 
it lays 

(All ad lib. the pros and cons together, very 
loudly. Hawthorne enters from l. and comes 
to them.) 

Hawthore. (From the stairs) Here, here, here, 
boys! (They stop and look at him. He comes 
down to them) Shame on you — naughty, naughty! 



84 HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

{They try to explain) Now, now, now! {They 
stop) Just because you are making money can't 
you be left alone ten minutes without quarrelling 
over it? What's going to become of you after I 
sail to-morrow? His Majesty gives this wonderful 
reception to celebrate her Royal Highness' return 
to Borrovina and instead of helping to make it a 
success, you come out here and scrap. {Sees bottles 
on the table) Oh, I see. {To waiter) Take these 
refreshments away. 

{Waiter does so and exits.) 

De Witz. But these guys refuse to go in on the 
American advertising scheme. 

Hawthorne, (r. of De Witz) Oh, no, that 
was all agreed upon. 

(De Witz crosses l. c.) 

Adamovic. I said with our present enormous 
business we do not need to advertise. 

Hawthorne. You think you'll get the benefit of 
the hotel ads without sharing the expense? 

Adamovic. We couldn't fill more orders if we 
had them. 

Hawthorne. Did you see the plans for the addi- 
tion to the bottling works? 



Adamovic. Yes — he- 



Hawthorne. Well, that will double your 
capacity. You've shipped five hundred dozen quarts 
and a thousand five gallon kegs to the United States 
in the last six weeks. 

Adamovic. Really? 

(Ivan crosses up to l. c.) 

Hawthorne. Really? And you didn't know it — -■ 
and you're at the head of the business. After this 
American advertising you'll be shipping four times 
that in a month. 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 85 

Adamovic. On the level? 

Hawthorne. I never handed you any wrong 
dope, did I? 

Adamovic. No, of course — if you say so, well, 
it's all right. 

De Witz. I told him if he tried piking, he 
couldn't get away with it. 

(Hawthorne turns to Ivan zvho is l. c.) 

Hawthorne. Speaking of the new road system — 

Ivan. Did you get the statement of the amount 
of tolls last month from the new Castle Highway? 

Hawthorne. Yes, wasn't it great ! 

Ivan. What do you know about that, eh? Al- 
most a constant stream of motoring parties. 

Hawthorne. We'll make this the greatest pay- 
as-you-enter country in the world. You must keep 
them hustling on the Mavoritz turnpike, it will have 
the Castle Road beaten to a frazzle. 

Ivan. (Laughing) Beaten to a frazzle — that's 
splendid! I must remember that one. (Jots the 
phrase down on a paper and joins the others vuho 
are up l. Hawthorne turns to De Witz r. c.) 

De Witz. Say, listen, we ought to reduce the 
speed limit to fifteen miles. 

Hawthorne. Why? 

De Witz. It would more than double the fines. 

Hawthorne. You're all right, Witzie. I ought 
to take you to America with me. 

De Witz. I'd do well there. 

Hawthorne. Think so? 

De Witz. Think — cinch! 

Ivan. No need of our going to America. This 
country has it beaten to a frizzle. 

{Music.) 



86 HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

Hawthorne. Frazzle ! Suppose we forget our 
money for a while and get back to the palace. 
Adamovic. Yes — we will. 
De Witz. So long, kiddo ! 

(All exit L. 2. Hawthorne looks after them and 
then at sun-dial.) 

Hawthorne. Hello, old chap — how are you, 
old five o'clock ? I haven't seen you for a long time, 
have I ? And if I don't ever see you again, take 
care of yourself. 

(Princess enters from top of stairs, followed by 
Kate. Princess stops on landing as she sees 
Hawthorne. He looks at her and they hold 
the picture for a moment.) 

Kate. I thought you had gone to the palace, 
Tony. 

Hawthorne. I'm going. 

Princess. You are leaving Borrovina? 

Hawthorne. Yes, in the morning. 

Princess. Then, good-bye, Mr. Hawthorne — 
and thank you for all you have done for us. 

Hawthorne. Fve done nothing. 

Princess. Indeed, you have, you've made of 
Borrovina a new country, a prosperous country, 
you've worked, worked earnestly and dreadfully 
hard. It must be wonderful to be loved as the 
people of Borrovina love you. You've made most 
of them happy. God bless you and may you achieve 
all you desire. (Princess extends her hand — Haw- 
thorne takes it and kisses it. Kate has gone up 
behind summer house. Miss Smythe enters l.) 

Miss Smythe. His Majesty is asking for your 
Royal Highness. (Hawthorne kisses her hand — 
Miss Smythe exits. Hawthorne stands looking 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 87 

after her, then turns front. As she gets c. Blake 
enters l. Kate comes from behind summer house. 
Hawthorne starts off) 

Blake. Where are you going? 

Hawthorne. I just want to take a farewell look 
at Borrovina. {Exits up r.) 

Blake. {Looking after him) He's got it bad, 
hasn't he? 

Kate. Terrible. 

Blake. I hope when he gets home he'll buck 
up a bit. Home ! Just think you'll be in New York 
in ten days. 

Kate. Yes, ten or eleven. 

Blake. Kate, do all you can to get Tony out of 
the state he's in. 

Kate. How can I help him? 

Blake. I don't know. But you girls find some 
way of making a fellow forget. 

Kate. Tony's not that kind. 

Blake. 1 wish she was a regular girl or Tony 
was a Prince or something, then maybe they could 
get married. 

ICate. Do you think she suspects how he loves 
her? 

Blake. Suspects? Wliy, she knows how much 
he loves her — just as well as you know how I love 
you. 

Kate. Do you love me. Rod — like that? 

Blake. Of course I do. 

Kate. You never said so. 

Blake. Well, you always knew it, didn't you? 

{A momenfs pause.) 

Kate. Am I to consider I've been proposed to? 

Blake. Well, no. I don't want to tie you down. 
I can't tell you how long I'll have to stay here. I 
never could ask you to marry me before because I 



88 HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

never had money enough. Now it's coming in fast 
but I'm anchored way off here. 

Kate. I don't mind that. 

Blake. Don't you? Fine! 

Kate. Isn't this old garden just full of romance? 

Blake. Ah, ha, full of it. (Coming down r.) 
Then it's understood, Kate, that we 

Kate. No, it isn't. Listen, Rod, we've been fond 
of each other all our lives, haven't we? 

Blake. I have. 

Kate. And we've been so much together that 
all our friends have taken our marriage as a matter 
of course. But I won't be cheated out of my 
woman's rights on that account. No, siree — if I'm 
going to marry you, I've got to be proposed to first. 

Blake. All right. (Takes chair and sits close 
to her L.) I'm no D'Artagnan, but I love you — 
and there's no other girl I love as much as I do 
you — in fact, there's no other girl I love at all. 
If there's anything you want me to do to prove it, 
I'll do it— I'll do it. 

(Kate looks at him and sighs.) 

Kate. Well? 

Blake. Well, what? 

Kate. Aren't you going to kiss me? 

Blake. Don't you think that's a silly thing to do ? 

(Kate looks at him, then looks azvay and sighs. 
Then rises and pats him on the arm.) 

Kate. Oh, come on. Rod, let's go back to the 
palace. (Crossing up r. Blake following after her) 

Blake. Listen, Kate, if you really want to kiss 
me 

Kate. Oh, no 



(Hawthorne enters.) 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 89 
(Senator crosses l. near sun-dial.) 

Hawthorne. Vm. just leaving — (Starts — in- 
dicates L.) 

King, (c.) So this is good-bye? 

Hawthorne, (r. c.) Yes — this is the last one. 

King. (Goes to him) My dear boy, we dread 
to have you leave us — words fail to express our 
gratitude for what you have done. When you are 
away over the seas in your wonderful America you 
will sometimes think of us. 

Hawthorne. Sometimes ! Why, your Majesty, 
I'm leaving the better part of my life in Borrovina. 

King. We shall always think of you as our 
benefactor — our very best friend. (Takes his hand) 

Hawthorne. Thank you very much. If you're 
ever in New York, let me know, won't you? (Goes 
up R. to Officer) Good-bye, old man. Try to get 
a little more of the stone-quarry stock — it's going to 
be a winner. 

Officer. Thank you, sir, I will. 

(Hawthorne crosses to l.) 

Hawthorne. Remember train-time, Senator. 

Senator, (l. c.) I know, five. 

Hawthorne. Your Majesty. (Exits l.) 

King. (l. — r. of dial) His going is a great loss, 
Senator. 

Senator, (r. c.) Your Majesty, that boy hasn't 
made a dollar out of all his work here. 

King. How is that possible? 

Senator. He didn't take a share of stock in any 
of the corporations. He's built up this little country 
and he's the one interested person that gets nothing 
out of it. (Crosses r.) 

King, (c.) He's a wonderful boy! It may be 
that his fortune is already so large that he has no 
desire to add to it. 



90 HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

Hawthorne. Don't make me laugh. What do 
I want to be a Duke for? 

Blake. Why, that's the first move — to be duked. 
Then after a couple of jumps you might get into 
the King row. Then you can go to the Princess and 
tell her you want to marry her — she'll ask her 
father and he'll fix it in some way. Gus'U do any- 
thing for you. 

{Enter Senator l. 2 dancing to the music off the 
stage. He comes dozvn l. c. dancing.) 

Senator. Hello, boys, thought I'd finished danc- 
ing twenty-five years ago — but I broke out again 
to-night. No rheumatism either. Come along, 
Rodney, Kate's waiting for you to take her home. 

Blake. I'll be right on the job. (Going to him) 
You and I have got to have a serious talk. 

Senator. You don't say! 

Blake. (Crossing above Senator) Think over 
what I said, Toney — it doesn't pay to be back- 
ward — take it from one who knows. So long, 
father-in-law. (Exit l.) 

Senator. (Coming to c.) What's the idea of 
the father-in-law thing? 

Hawthorne. Kate and Rod are engaged. 

Senator. Well, it's about time. 

Hawthorne. Senator, have you our passage 
home? 

Senator. Yes, got it here ; here's yours. Well, 
I suppose you'll be glad to get back, eh? 

Hawthorne. Yes. 

Senator. Still you have no cause to complain 
the way this country has treated you. You must 
have cleaned up a lot of money here, Tony. 

Hawthorne. No. 

Senator. No? That two million dollars I in- 
vested nearly doubled itself. You mean to say what 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 91 

with all these investments you ha.ven't realized any 
profits? Why, what railroad stock alone 

Hawthorne. I haven't made any investments. 

Senator. What ? 

Hawthorne. Haven't invested a penny — 
haven't made a cent. 

Senator. Haven't made a cent — I suppose 
you'll be telling me next you are broke. 

Hawthorne. The Government has repaid me 
the money I loaned them the night of the revolution, 
and I split that with Rod — so I've some money. 

Senator. You've got some where you should 
have had barrels. Why the mischief didn't you go 
after it? 

Hawthorne. I didn't want it. 

Senator. I suppose you have been working here 
night and day for the past year just for the love 
of it. 

Hawthorne. That's it, Senator — just for the 
love of it. 

Senator. {Takes Hawthorne hy the shoulders 
and looks him squarely in the faee) That's what 
Kate meant when she said I was blind. You've 
done all this because the Princess 

Hawthorne. Loves Borrovina better than any- 
thing in the world — because 

Senator. You love the Princess better than any- 
thing in the world. 

(King enters l. from stairs, followed by Officer 
OF the Guard. King comes down l. Officer 
goes up r.) 



King. (Speaks from top of steps) Ah, gentle- 
men, why have you forsaken the palace? 

Senator. Your Majesty, I've just heard a stor^ 
that I can't possibly believe. 

King. It must be an American story. Mr. Haw- 
thorne, we feared you had gone. 



92 HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

Blake. Ah, Duke! 

Hawthorne. Hello, Rod. I hope I haven*t 
interrupted anything. 

Kate. Not a thing. We were just going home. 
(Starts off L. again) 

Blake. (Follozmng her) Listen, Kate — if you 
really want to kiss me 

Kite. Oh, no! {Exits l.) 

Blake. (Coming c, and extending his hand) 
Shake hands with me, Tony. 

Hawthorne. (Shaking hands) What's the idea? 

Blake. Shake hands with the champion Romeo 
of the vv^orld. 

Havvthorne. Sure — but why? 

Blake. Kate and I. 

Hawthorne. What is it? ' 

Blake. Engaged. 

Hawthorne. Oh, you are ? Fine ! Does Kate 
know it? 

Blake. Sure — I proposed and everything. I 
wish you could have heard me. I never thought 
lovemaking was in my line, but say, when the time 
came to-night, I found I was all there. I am some 
proposer. Have you seen the Princess? 

Hawthorne. (Goes r. and sits) Yes. 

Blake. Did you fix up anything? 

Hawthorne. What do you mean? 

Blake. What the deuce do you suppose I mean ? 
I mean, are you engaged ? 

Hawthorne. Oh, rot! 

Blake. What is rot? There is no Prince in the 
way now. It would be a cinch if you'd only go 
after it as I did. 

Hawthorne. You don't know what you're talk- 
ing about. 

Blake. Of course it would. You couldn't ask 
anything that King Augustus would refuse. Why 
wouldn't you stand for his making you a Duke ? 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 93 

Senator. Fortune, fiddlesticks! There was no 
truth in that cock and bull story of his being a 
capitalist. 

King. What? 

Senator. No. The newspapers made that mis- 
take and Tony let it go to give the people confidence. 
But every dollar he had in the world was in that 
suit-case the night of the revolution. 

King. (r. of sun-dial) Incredible ! What could 
have been his object in gratuitously doing all this 
for Borrovina? 

Senator. Your Majesty — well, I don't know 
whether I can tell you or not. If you Majesty were 
just a man instead of a King it would be easy 
enough. 

King. Suppose we forget Fm a King and try to 
imagine I'm a human being, eh! 

Senator. Oh, I didn't mean that — I too — may I 
I tell you something, as one father to another? 

King. It would delight me. 
' Senator. Then the reason Tony has done all 
this is because the Princess loves Borrovina better 
than anything in the world — and because — he loves 
the Princess better than anything in the world. 

King. This is most remarkable — most distress- 
ing. (Princess enters down the stairs) Ah, Irma, 
we've been talking of you. (King goes tip r. and 
talks to Officer) 

Princess. (Comes d. l. of sundial) They told 
me I should find your Majesty here. Miss Ballard 
and Mr. Blake are in the motor-car waiting for 
you, Senator. 

Senator. Then I won't keep them waiting any 
longer. I bid you good-bye, Princess. 

Princess. Good-bye and a pleasant journey. 

Senator. Thank you. (Crosses l. u.) 

King. You understand? 



94 HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 

Officer. I'll overtake him, your Majesty. (Exit 

L.) 

Senator. Your Majesty. 

King. Senator, when may we expect you to re- 
turn? 

Senator. I'll return next October w^ith a ship- 
load of rheumatic friends of mine. (Exits l.) 

King. (To Princess) You haA'-en't forgotten 
your garden, eh? 

Princess. No. 

King. I have just been saying good-bye to Mr. 
Hawthorne. Did you see him to-night ? 

Princess. Yes. 

King. I trust you expressed your thanks for 
w^hat he has done for Borrovina. 

Princess. I congratulated him upon his success. 

King. His success — quite so. (Crosses to seat 
r.) But we have just learned that Mr. Hawthorne, 
for some strange reason of his own, has seen fit to 
take no profit for all he has done here. 

Princess. (She looks l., then speaks) Father! 

King. He has done it unselfishly — and we have 
reaped all the reward. 

Princess. (Kneels at his l.) Is this true, 
Father? 

King. Yes. We thought him rich, we find he 
was not. That he gave all he possessed to save us. 
But for Mr. Hawthorne we should be paupers in 
exile and Borrovina a nation of the past. 

Princess. Why didn't you tell me before ? 

King. (Rises) Ah — and now that you know, 
could you not perhaps convey to Mr. Hawthorne — 

Princess. But it's too late — we said good-bye — 
he's gone — and I shan't see him again. 

King. Gone, yes — what a pity! 

(Enter Officer l.) 
Officer. I've brought him back, your Majesty. 



HAWTHORNE OF THE U. S. A. 95 

(Hawthorne enters l. Officer exits l.) 

Hawthorne. You sent for me, Sire ? 

(Music.) 

King. Ah, music! (Crosses to l. and starts up- 
stairs. As he is half up, Hawthorne speaks) 

Hawthorne. But, your Majesty 

King. (Stops on middle landing of steps) Mr. 
Hawthorne, ahhough it will not yet be made public, 
we wish you to know before you leave us, that we 
have in council to-day definitely decided upon your 
American form of Government. There will be no 
more kings in Borrovina. At the termination of my 
reign this kingdom will be made a Republic. And 
now, may we ask you to escort her Royal Highness 
to the palace, Mr. Hawthorne — Tony? (He exits) 

(Hawthorne looks at Princess, removes overcoat, 
goes to her and kneels.) 

Hawthorne. May Carlo speak? 

Princess. Yes. 

Hawthorne. Pm leaving for America in the 
morning, unless someone asks me to stay. 

Princess. Please stay. 

Hawthorne. Then, Pm forgiven? 

Princess. Forgiven? Why, you've done all this 
for me — and I love you. 

Hawthorne. And I love you. 

Princess. And I love you. (She kneels to him 
and they embrace, repeating the phrase until curtain 
descends) 

Curtain 









^.1^- 












^i: 



/s»l1 






</^; 






im^: 



■J'.:*»,J^: 






LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 




014 678 572 4 






